West Virginia — A cool, faintly misted dawn settles over Charleston, dimming streetlights and soaking the last fallen leaves along driveways and sidewalks. The air feels dense and still, a clear signal of the wet, shifting pattern taking shape just as Thanksgiving travel ramps up across the Kanawha Valley.
Rain spreads in after midday, and the first steady pulses could slow traffic on I-64, I-77, and Route 60 through late afternoon. The National Weather Service notes that storms may develop later tonight, bringing bursts of heavier rain that reduce visibility and create fast-forming ponding on low-lying stretches near the river. Drivers should expect longer travel times, watch braking distances, and consider earlier departures when possible.
The pattern eases slightly on Wednesday as light rain lingers early, then clouds hang over the region with highs near the upper 50s. Winds remain calm, creating a brief window for errands, school pickups, and early holiday preparation. To be fair, this midweek pause arrives at the perfect time, even though travel conditions stay damp.
Thursday shifts again. More rain develops after sunset, and the warm daytime air transitions into a cooler nighttime layer. That swing could trigger a Winter Tease in the higher elevations east of Charleston, though no snow is expected in the city itself. Still, travelers should watch for sudden decreases in visibility along the ridge tops and winding secondary roads.
Friday keeps the rain threat alive, and the combination of saturated ground and repeated downpours could lead to minor travel disruptions during the busiest pre-Thanksgiving period. Saturday trends partly sunny but breezy, with a continued chance of showers nearby.
Charleston sees no winter hazards this week, yet the November rhythm is shifting. Early-season cues continue to build, hinting at the colder pattern waiting just beyond the holiday.
