Charleston, West Virginia – Wintry weather is set to return to West Virginia this evening as rain changes over to snow and temperatures drop sharply, creating hazardous travel conditions through Thursday. Officials warn that snow squalls and rapidly falling temperatures could impact the Thursday morning commute, particularly in the mountains.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, rain will transition to snow across much of the state tonight as colder air moves in. Snow showers are expected to continue through Thursday, with brief snow squalls possible during the morning commute. Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for portions of the mountains, where accumulations are expected to be highest.
In northwestern West Virginia, including Randolph, Webster, Barbour, Upshur, and Nicholas counties, snowfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts of 3 to 5 inches possible across northwest Pocahontas, southeast Randolph, and southeast Webster counties. Lighter accumulations are expected in the lowlands, though slick roads remain likely as temperatures fall below freezing.
Cold Weather Advisories are also in effect early Thursday morning for several areas. Wind chills as low as 10 degrees below zero are possible across southern Fayette, southeast Nicholas, and southwest Webster counties. Farther north, including northwest and southeast Randolph counties, wind chills could drop as low as 17 degrees below zero, raising concerns for frostbite and hypothermia.
Snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and rapidly freezing surfaces could impact travel along I-79, U.S. 19, U.S. 33, and mountain routes Thursday morning. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for sudden changes in conditions.
Colder air will remain in place through Thursday, with additional snow showers possible. Advisories remain in effect into Thursday afternoon, and further updates may be issued as conditions evolve.
