Charleston, West Virginia – Blistering heat is gripping central and western West Virginia, creating health hazards and travel headaches as temperatures soar and storms brew for Wednesday, July 30th. The heat index could reach a sweltering 106° in Charleston, Huntington, and along the busy I-64 corridor, intensifying the risk for heat-related illness and disrupting outdoor activities across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday for much of southern and western West Virginia, including Kanawha, Cabell, Wayne, Mason, and Putnam counties. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor work, and check on vulnerable neighbors. “Young children and pets should never be left in vehicles under any circumstances,” officials warn. Area cooling centers may be available, and those traveling on U.S. Route 60 or I-77 should plan for delays due to the dangerous heat and the threat of isolated afternoon storms.
Wednesday’s forecast calls for mostly sunny skies, a high near 95°F, and heat index values up to 105°. Scattered showers and thunderstorms may develop late in the day, potentially bringing brief relief but also causing localized power outages or flooding in low-lying areas. If you must be outside, wear lightweight clothing and take frequent breaks indoors.
Looking ahead, temperatures cool slightly Thursday, with more widespread storms expected and highs near 83°F. Friday brings another round of scattered storms and a high around 79°F—welcome relief from the week’s heat. The weekend turns mostly sunny and comfortable, with highs in the low 80s through Monday, August 4th.
Stay tuned for further updates as warnings remain in effect and changing conditions could bring more advisories.
Charleston Five Day Weather Outlook:
- Wednesday, July 30: Mostly sunny, hot, high near 95°F. Afternoon/evening storms possible. Heat index up to 105°.
- Thursday, July 31: Showers and thunderstorms likely, especially early. Cooler, high near 83°F.
- Friday, August 1: Chance of storms early, then partly sunny. High near 79°F.
- Saturday, August 2: Mostly sunny, pleasant. High near 82°F, low around 62°F.
- Sunday, August 3: Mostly sunny, comfortable. High near 84°F, low near 62°F.
- Monday, August 4: Mostly sunny, continued mild. High near 84°F.
Heat precautions and updated advisories remain in place until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Continue to monitor trusted sources for the latest local weather alerts.
