West Virginia Weather Alert Today: Charleston Faces Wind Chills Near 15° on MLK Day

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West Virginia — Gray skies hang low over the Kanawha Valley this morning, and the cold cuts deeper than the thermometer suggests. In Charleston, gusty winds push the chill down into the teens, making sidewalks feel slick and the air bite hard on exposed skin.

Temperatures start the day in the upper 20s, but west winds gusting over 20 mph keep it feeling colder. Clouds gradually thin through the morning, allowing some sunshine by afternoon. Highs climb near 31 degrees, though melting stays limited and shaded pavement remains icy in spots.

According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, winds ease after sunset, but the cold intensifies. Tonight turns mostly clear with lows falling near 9 degrees. Wind chills dip close to zero, raising concerns for untreated roads, bridges, and early-morning travel.

Tuesday stays dry but cold. Sunshine returns, yet highs only reach the upper 20s. Calm conditions help, but winter still dominates daily routines. Layers remain essential for anyone outdoors for long.

A noticeable shift arrives Wednesday. Southerly winds pull in milder air, pushing highs into the mid to upper 40s. It feels almost springlike compared to earlier in the week. That warmth comes with a tradeoff, as clouds thicken late Wednesday night.

Rain chances increase after midnight Wednesday, continuing into Thursday. While temperatures stay above freezing, wet roads and reduced visibility could impact the morning commute along I-64 and surface streets across Kanawha County. Highs Thursday settle near 42 degrees before cooler air returns late.

Looking ahead, colder air lurks behind the midweek system, keeping winter weather threats active into the weekend. Fluctuating temperatures also raise the risk of flash freezing once moisture refreezes after dark.

Plan ahead today, bundle up against the wind, and stay alert as conditions change quickly this week. How sharp did the cold feel where you stepped outside this morning?

Five-Day Weather Outlook for Charleston, WV

  • Today: Decreasing clouds, windy, high near 31°
  • Tonight: Mostly clear, very cold, low near 9°
  • Tuesday: Sunny, cold, high near 27°
  • Wednesday: Mostly sunny, milder, high near 47°
  • Thursday: Chance of rain, high near 42°