Charleston, W.Va. – Daily thunderstorms could disrupt travel and outdoor plans across West Virginia through Saturday, with the strongest storms likely Friday afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a weak surface low moving through southwest Virginia will bring increased moisture and instability. That setup will fuel afternoon and evening thunderstorms Wednesday through Saturday, with rain chances peaking at 80% in the lowlands Friday. Mountain communities, including Elkins and Snowshoe, face a 70% chance of rain and possible patchy fog.
Highs will reach the mid-80s in Charleston and Huntington through Friday, while mountain areas stay cooler in the low 70s to near 80. Winds remain light but could gust during storms. Evening storms may bring localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas and poorly drained roads.
Residents are urged to monitor forecasts closely, avoid flooded roadways, and secure outdoor items. Campers and hikers in the higher elevations should be prepared to seek shelter quickly as lightning becomes a threat.
Showers may linger into early next week, with a slight chance of rain continuing through Tuesday. A new cold front arriving late Sunday could reset storm chances heading into next week.
