Charleston, WV – A line of potentially severe thunderstorms is expected to sweep across much of West Virginia’s lowlands Thursday afternoon into the evening, bringing the risk of damaging winds and hail to cities including Charleston, Huntington, and Parkersburg.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a slight risk for severe weather has been issued for southeast Ohio, northeast Kentucky, and lowland areas of West Virginia. Storms may begin developing as early as 2 p.m. Thursday and could intensify through sunset, with isolated cells capable of producing strong wind gusts and quarter-size hail.
Areas along I-64 and US-52, especially near Huntington and Charleston, should prepare for reduced visibility and slick roads during the evening commute. In Parkersburg and Clarksburg, residents are urged to secure outdoor objects and monitor alerts, as gusty winds could down tree limbs or cause scattered power outages.
Daytime highs will reach the mid-80s in lowland areas, adding instability to the atmosphere and increasing the chance of strong storm development. If you live in a mobile home or an area prone to flooding, make a backup safety plan now.
Storms are expected to weaken overnight, but additional rounds of rain and thunderstorms are possible Friday as a cold front moves through. Watches or warnings may be issued Thursday morning—stay weather aware.
