Charleston, WV – A crisp, biting start greets West Virginia this morning as residents feel December’s first real push of winter creeping in. Light frost clings to porches across Kanawha County, and the quiet air hints at colder, wetter changes building ahead of increased post-Thanksgiving travel. Drivers should keep coats, gloves, and windshield scrapers close, especially with temperatures expected to swing toward rain, a wintry mix, and near-freezing conditions by early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service, Charleston’s weather will turn more active beginning late Sunday as moisture lifts into the region. Clouds thicken through the day, and rain develops by late afternoon. A brief rain-snow mix may appear near the higher ridges before temperatures climb, keeping accumulations unlikely for now. Still, early-season patterns can shift quickly, and the transition from cold air to warmer rain can create slick patches, especially on bridges and rural routes.
Meteorologists are also tracking a broader December 1–5 cold push across the Midwest and Northeast. The same pattern may feed heavier snow farther north, and early signs of a larger winter system developing late next week could impact long-range travel. For West Virginia, this setup means cooler air lingers and additional rain chances extend into Tuesday.
By Monday morning, Charleston warms into the lower 40s, but lingering dampness and breezy conditions may slow parts of the post-Thanksgiving return. Plan extra minutes if driving during the morning commute and watch for reduced visibility in pockets of slushy drizzle north of the metro.
Five-Day Outlook
Saturday: Partly sunny. High near 44.
Sunday: Chance of rain, then rain/snow mix late. High 49.
Monday: Rain likely, slight wintry mix early. High 40.
Tuesday: Rain during morning, then cloudy. High 40.
Wednesday: Partly sunny. High 40.
