Charleston, West Virginia – Drivers across West Virginia are waking up to hazardous conditions on New Year’s Day as a quick-hitting winter system brings accumulating snow and sharply falling temperatures through the morning hours. The most intense snowfall is impacting the mountains and higher elevations, with slick roads and poor visibility spreading into lower elevations early today.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a fast-moving line of moderate to heavy snow is pushing through the region this morning, with Winter Storm Warnings in effect for the West Virginia mountains and Winter Weather Advisories covering much of the lower elevations of West Virginia and Washington County, Ohio. Snow is expected to taper off by mid-morning, but impacts could linger well beyond that timeframe.
Snow totals are expected to range from 1 to 2 inches across parts of the Ohio River Valley, including Parkersburg and Athens, while Charleston, Huntington, and surrounding counties could see 2 to 4 inches. Heavier totals of 4 to 6 inches are likely from Clarksburg through Elkins and Weston, with up to 6 to 8 inches possible in the higher elevations near Snowshoe. Gusty winds and rapidly falling temperatures into the 20s are adding to the danger.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly during heavier snow bursts, especially on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads. WVDOH crews are treating highways, but officials urge motorists to delay travel if possible and allow extra time if heading out this morning.
Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing through the morning, briefly rising above freezing only in parts of the southern lowlands this afternoon before dropping back into the 20s tonight. Snow showers and flurries may redevelop near the mountains later today and again overnight.
Winter weather headlines remain in effect through mid-morning, and additional advisories could be issued if snow bands linger longer than expected. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates closely as conditions improve slowly through the day.
