West Virginia Weather: Heavy Rain Friday Followed by First Chance of Snow Sunday Night
CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA — A calm autumn week is about to take a wintry turn. The National Weather Service in Charleston says West Virginia will see a major pattern shift starting Friday, with steady rain, gusty winds, and the first chance of snow by late Sunday night.
The approaching cold front will bring a fast-moving mix of wet roads, breezy conditions, and falling temperatures, setting the stage for the state’s first taste of winter heading into next week.
Thursday: Calm Before the Storm
Thursday begins quietly across Charleston and surrounding areas, offering clear skies and calm winds — a brief pause before the weekend shift. Highs will reach around 58°F, making it an ideal day for outdoor activities or early travel.
By Thursday night, clouds will begin to thicken as a strong storm system approaches from the west.
Friday: Heavy Rain and Gusty Winds
Meteorologists say rain will begin midday Friday and intensify through the evening, leading to wet roads, ponding, and reduced visibility during the evening commute.
Wind gusts of 25–30 mph are likely along the I-64 corridor, creating challenging travel conditions for drivers. Despite the storm, temperatures will climb to around 70°F, but forecasters warn that this brief warmth won’t last.
“Expect wet roads, reduced visibility, and breezy conditions during Friday evening travel,” the National Weather Service Charleston office said in its advisory.
Saturday: Brief Break Before the Chill
Saturday will bring a short-lived break from the rain. Sunshine will return for much of the day, and highs will hover near 68°F, offering one last mild afternoon before the cold air arrives.
However, the calm won’t last long — meteorologists say another system will sweep in late Sunday, dropping temperatures rapidly.
Sunday Night: Cold Front Brings Possible Snow
By Sunday afternoon, a colder system will move in from the Midwest, bringing scattered showers that could mix with wet snow by nightfall, particularly in mountain valleys and higher elevations.
Counties like Pocahontas and Randolph could see light snow or sleet early Monday morning. Lower elevations will likely remain rain-soaked, but temperatures will plunge statewide overnight.
Early Next Week: First True Winter Chill
The cold air arriving behind Sunday’s system will linger well into Veterans Day week. Daytime highs on Monday and Tuesday will only reach the upper 30s to low 40s, with overnight lows dipping into the mid-20s.
Wind chills could make it feel even colder, particularly for outdoor events honoring Veterans Day.
“This will be our first true taste of winter weather this season,” NWS forecasters said. “Bundle up and prepare for potentially slick morning conditions.”
Weather Safety Tips for the Weekend
Residents are urged to prepare for a quick weather turnaround:
- Allow extra travel time on Friday during heavy rain.
- Watch for ponding and poor visibility on major routes.
- Bundle up Sunday night through Monday morning.
- Check heating systems and winterize vehicles now.
- Keep flashlights and blankets handy in case of brief power disruptions.
Five-Day Outlook for Charleston, WV
| Day | High / Low | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | 58° / 38° | Sunny, calm |
| Friday | 70° / 51° | Rain likely, gusty winds |
| Saturday | 68° / 47° | Mostly sunny, mild |
| Sunday | 55° / 27° | Rain, then possible snow mix late |
| Monday | 39° / 26° | Cloudy, chance of snow |
| Tuesday (Veterans Day) | 43° / 25° | Cold, brisk winds |
From steady rain Friday to a cold, snowy mix Sunday night, West Virginia is in for its first real taste of winter. As temperatures tumble and the first flakes appear in the mountains, residents across the Mountain State should prepare for a chilly start to the new week — and the season ahead.
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