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Winter Weather Arrives in Charleston, West Virginia

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A snowy winter morning in Charleston, with a doe calmly walking through the snow.

News Summary

Charleston woke up to cold temperatures and warnings of winter weather, including snow and icy conditions. A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain is expected this weekend. With highs barely reaching the low 30s and wind chills dropping to -20°F, residents are urged to prepare for hazardous travel and to check on vulnerable neighbors. Warming shelters are available to help those in need. Stay safe and warm, Charleston!

Brace Yourselves, Charleston! Winter Weather Is Making Its Presence Known!

Today, Charleston woke up to a chilly Saturday morning, and it looks like Old Man Winter has different plans for us in West Virginia! On January 4, 2025, the sky was mostly cloudy earlier in the day but is expected to clear a bit, transitioning to partly cloudy by afternoon. Temperatures are going to struggle to reach a high of just 31°F, with some brisk west winds blowing at around 10 to 15 mph. When night falls, expect an even chillier low of 18°F, and those winds will calm down slightly.

In a delightful moment on January 3, a doe was spotted in the snow along Gordon Drive here in Charleston, a reminder that nature is just outside our doors, even in the deep freeze!

Snow, Sleet, and Warming Shelters

Mark your calendars! A brief break from the relentless winter weather is set for Saturday afternoon. After dealing with light to moderate snowfall on Friday, the eastern mountains face the potential for a whopping 6-12 inches of snow, while those of us in the lower elevations could get stuck with 1-3 inches. And beware of those gusty winds, which could hit speeds of 40 mph or more!

For those in western Greenbrier County, northwest Pocahontas County, and southeastern Randolph County, a cold weather advisory is now in effect. Expect wind chills that could make it feel like a frosty -20 degrees. This advisory lasts from 7 p.m. Friday until 7 a.m. Sunday, so bundle up!

Heads up! Another winter system is expected to roll through our state on Sunday afternoon. It promises to bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain throughout all areas. Keep an eye out for additional snow showers that are likely to continue from Monday night and into the week. By midweek, single-digit lows are even anticipated statewide.

Travel Impacts and Community Support

Travelers, be cautious! A wintry mix could lead to hazardous conditions on the roads, particularly around the Charleston/Huntington Metro Valley, where significant ice accumulation is possible. This could also heighten the risk of power outages, so it’s best to plan ahead!

As Charleston’s weather unfolds, Saturday’s forecast looks icy, with highs of only 27°F and lows dipping to 20°F. For Huntington, temperatures are milder, expected to reach 33°F but then dropping to 23°F. Sunday will keep us on a chilly path, lingering in the mid- to high-20s.

For those needing warmth during this chilly spell, a warming shelter will be available in Charleston starting at 7 p.m. on Friday night at the Bream SHOP, located at 319 W. Washington St. This shelter will operate until 7 a.m. and may extend its hours depending on future cold temperatures.

Stay Safe and Look Out for One Another

In these cold, bitter days, it’s vital to check on your neighbors and loved ones. Make sure everyone is safe and comfortable, particularly the elderly and those without adequate heating. Residents should take precautions to avoid hypothermia and frostbite, wearing protective clothing and keeping pets indoors.

If you or anyone you know needs assistance finding a shelter, local emergency managers and community groups are standing by to help. Reach out to West Virginia 211 or visit their website for more information. Severe weather reports can also be submitted to authorities to keep everyone informed and safe.

As we batten down the hatches for this winter blast, let’s support one another! Stay warm, Charleston!