Charleston, West Virginia – Heavy downpours late Thursday night could quickly flood roads and low-lying areas across West Virginia and southeast Ohio, creating hazardous overnight travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a cold front will push through the region late Thursday into early Friday, bringing rounds of showers and thunderstorms. While the severe threat remains low, a few stronger storms could still develop Thursday evening before weakening overnight.
The primary concern shifts to heavy rainfall, especially where storms repeatedly track over the same areas. Counties across western and northern West Virginia, including Cabell, Kanawha, and Wood, along with parts of southeast Ohio such as Athens and Washington counties, face the highest risk for localized flash flooding.
Drivers along I-64, I-77, and U.S. 35 could encounter water-covered roads and reduced visibility overnight into the early Friday commute. Poor drainage areas and urban locations are most vulnerable to rapid water buildup.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways and ensure weather alerts are active before going to sleep. Charging devices and monitoring updates will be critical as conditions evolve overnight.
Storm activity is expected to diminish by early Friday morning, but additional advisories may be issued if flooding develops.
