Charleston, W.Va. – Snow-covered interstates and near whiteout conditions are creating dangerous travel across much of West Virginia early Monday, with heavy bands and gusty winds set to persist through the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 1 a.m. Tuesday for central, northern and southeastern West Virginia. Higher elevations, including Snowshoe, Richwood, Elkins and Webster Springs, could see an additional 5 to 10 inches of snow, with locally higher totals along ridgetops. Wind gusts between 40 and 50 mph will drive blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility to near zero at times.
In lower elevations, including Charleston, Huntington, Beckley and Clarksburg, up to 3 inches of additional snow is expected with gusts up to 35 mph. Roads, especially bridges and overpasses along I-79, I-64 and U.S. 19, are likely to become slick as temperatures remain below freezing.
Emergency officials urge residents to delay non-essential travel and check West Virginia 511 for live road updates. Drivers who must travel should carry winter survival kits and allow extra time.
Snow will taper late Monday night, but warnings remain in effect until 1 a.m. Tuesday, and additional advisories could follow if bands redevelop over the mountains.
