West Virginia – Headlights glow through thick gray fog across river valleys this morning as damp air clings to roadways and bridges, cutting visibility and raising early concerns about slick travel. In parts of the Kanawha Valley, pavement looks wet but hides patches of freezing fog where temperatures hover near 32 degrees.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, dense fog and areas of freezing fog developed before sunrise and may linger into the morning commute. Visibility has dropped below a half mile in spots, especially near rivers and low-lying roads, while surface temperatures sit near the freezing mark.
Across the state, this is a classic January setup. Moist air, calm winds, and cold ground increase the risk of black ice, particularly on bridges and elevated surfaces. Drivers around Charleston, South Charleston, Nitro, and Cross Lanes should slow down and allow extra space. Wet pavement may refreeze quickly after brief warming.
Later today, clouds thin and temperatures climb sharply, signaling a major shift. Mild air surges in Friday and Saturday, bringing steady rain and soaked ground statewide. In Charleston, highs reach the 60s, an abrupt break from winter that can melt leftover frost and ice.
That warmth does not last. As colder air pushes back late Saturday night into Sunday, rain may mix with or change to snow. Even light snow could cause flash freezing as temperatures fall, turning wet roads slick by early Sunday. Hills and shaded roads could see the worst conditions.
Another cold night follows into early next week, keeping winter travel concerns active. Additional advisories are possible as the temperature swing sharpens.
Traveling this weekend? Share what road conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Charleston, WV
• Today: Morning fog, then partly sunny. High near 64.
• Friday: Rain likely, periods of steady rain. High near 68.
• Saturday: Rain continues, locally heavy. High near 63.
• Sunday: Chance of rain changing to snow. High near 39.
• Monday: Mostly sunny and colder. High near 39.
