Charleston, West Virginia – Bitter Arctic air has settled firmly over West Virginia, delivering dangerously low wind chills this morning and keeping much of the state locked in frigid conditions through tonight, with limited relief expected before another cold surge later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, Extreme Cold Warnings remain in effect through this afternoon for parts of the eastern mountains, including northwest Pocahontas, southeast Randolph and southeast Webster counties, where wind chills have dropped as low as 22 degrees below zero. Cold Weather Advisories remain in place through midday for much of the rest of the state, including portions of the lowlands.
Across West Virginia, morning temperatures have fallen into the single digits, with readings below zero at higher elevations. Gusty winds are making it feel even colder, driving wind chills into the minus teens and 20s in the mountains and near zero to 10 below across the lowlands. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions.
Highs today will struggle to climb out of the teens and 20s before another cold night sets in. A brief moderation arrives Wednesday, with temperatures turning milder ahead of the next front, but forecasters are watching another Arctic push Friday that could bring renewed cold and the potential for weekend snow.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, protect pets and check on vulnerable neighbors. Additional cold-related alerts may be issued as confidence grows in the late-week and weekend pattern.
