West Virginia Winter Weather Alert: Snow Showers and Flash Freeze Risk by Friday Night in Charleston

0
-Advertisement-

Charleston, West Virginia – Low clouds hang over the Kanawha Valley this morning as damp air clings to windshields and sidewalks. The cold feels sharper than earlier this week, and winter is far from finished. Temperatures hover near freezing after early fog, setting the stage for a more active stretch of February weather.

According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, moisture tied to a developing low-pressure system will keep skies mostly cloudy today, with highs reaching the mid-30s. Colder air settles in tonight, dropping temperatures into the teens. That chill lingers into Thursday before the next round of precipitation arrives late Friday.

Snow is expected to develop Friday afternoon, mixing at times with rain before colder air takes over. Light accumulation is possible by Friday evening, especially on untreated roads. Crews will be watching bridges and overpasses along I-64, I-77, and U.S. 119, where slushy patches could refreeze quickly after sunset.

Friday night brings a higher chance of steady snow, with reduced visibility and slick travel conditions likely during evening commutes. By Saturday morning, lingering snow showers taper off, but cold pavement raises concerns for flash freezing as daytime melting refreezes overnight.

Drivers should plan extra time Friday and early Saturday, keep headlights on in falling snow, and watch for sudden icy spots. Residents are urged to charge devices, check heating systems, and limit non-essential travel during heavier snow.

Looking ahead, cold air holds through the weekend before a gradual warming trend emerges early next week. Milder temperatures may signal a shift toward late-winter thawing, though winter hazards remain in play for now. Traveling this weekend? Let us know what road conditions look like where you are.


Five-Day Outlook for Charleston, WV

  • Today: Mostly cloudy, highs near 34°F
  • Thursday: Partly sunny, colder, highs around 30°F
  • Friday: Snow develops, highs near 38°F, slick roads late
  • Saturday: Morning snow ending, mostly sunny, highs near 26°F
  • Sunday: Mostly cloudy, slightly milder, highs near 36°F