Weather
West Virginia Weather Alert: Sharp Cooldown Arrives Oct. 17-21
Centralia, WV – West Virginia residents could experience a significant temperature swing this week as warm afternoons give way to much colder weekend conditions. Parts of central West Virginia may see
By Grant Holloway · 2026-10-12T10:58:06.896Z
Centralia, WV – West Virginia residents could experience a significant temperature swing this week as warm afternoons give way to much colder weekend conditions. Parts of central West Virginia may see overnight temperatures approaching freezing by Saturday, October 17, following several days of warmth and increasing rain chances.
According to the National Weather Service, the latest forecast for the Centralia area in Braxton County calls for temperatures climbing to around 80 degrees Tuesday and 81 degrees Wednesday before a sharp cooldown develops later in the week.
Wednesday could also bring a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, followed by a 50% chance of precipitation Wednesday night.
Rain chances continue Thursday, with a high near 76 degrees and a 40% chance of showers. By Friday, October 16, precipitation chances increase to 70%, with temperatures reaching approximately 69 degrees.
Sharp Temperature Drop Expected This Weekend
The biggest change arrives Saturday, October 17, when daytime highs near Centralia are expected to reach only 51 degrees.
Saturday night temperatures could fall to around 33 degrees, bringing conditions close to freezing in portions of central West Virginia.
That represents a nearly 50 degree difference between Wednesday's forecast afternoon high and Saturday night's expected low.
While the forecast does not currently indicate temperatures below freezing in Centralia, colder valleys and sheltered locations could experience different conditions.
NOAA Outlook Extends Into October 21
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center favors below normal temperatures across portions of eastern West Virginia during October 17 21.
The outlook suggests the cooler pattern could continue beyond the initial weekend temperature drop, although probabilities vary across the state.
Residents in Braxton County and surrounding central West Virginia communities should monitor updated forecasts, particularly those with sensitive outdoor plants or weekend travel plans.
Temperatures are expected to rebound somewhat Sunday, with sunshine and highs near 60 degrees around Centralia.