Central and Eastern West Virginia – Heavy snow and strong winds are expected to significantly impact travel and power infrastructure through early Saturday, as a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect across much of the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Storm Warning continues until 7 a.m. Saturday for portions of northeast, northern, and southeast West Virginia. The warning includes Upshur, Barbour, Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, Webster, Pocahontas, and Randolph counties.
Forecasters call for additional snowfall of 5 to 10 inches, accompanied by wind gusts up to 55 mph. The combination of accumulating snow and strong winds may lead to blowing snow, reduced visibility, and rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
Travel is expected to be very difficult, particularly during the Friday evening and overnight hours. Roads may become slick and hazardous, and conditions could change quickly as heavier snow bands move through the region.
Strong winds combined with the weight of snow on trees may bring down limbs and power lines, increasing the risk of sporadic power outages and localized tree damage. Higher elevations and exposed areas are expected to experience the worst conditions.
The warning includes numerous communities, including Beckley, Buckhannon, Elkins, Summersville, Fayetteville, Oak Hill, Philippi, Richwood, Webster Springs, Snowshoe, and Craigsville, where impacts may intensify overnight.
Emergency officials urge residents to delay all travel if possible. Those who must be on the roads should drive with extreme caution, leave extra following distance, and allow additional time to reach their destinations. Drivers are also advised to ensure vehicles are winterized and prepared for winter travel.
Snow and wind conditions are expected to gradually improve after daybreak Saturday as the storm system exits the region.
