Charleston, WV – After a stretch of calm autumn days, West Virginia is bracing for a major weather shift that will bring steady rain, gusty winds, and the first hints of snow by the end of the weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston says a strong fall front will sweep across the state beginning Friday, marking the start of a colder, stormier pattern.
The Forecast: Calm Start Before Friday’s Storms Arrive
Thursday begins quietly across Charleston and the Kanawha Valley, with clear skies and light winds offering a temporary calm before conditions take a turn. Highs will reach around 58°F, making it an ideal day for travel and outdoor activities before the stormy weekend ahead.
By Thursday night, clouds will build from the west as a powerful weather system approaches. Meteorologists say rain will begin midday Friday and quickly become steady to heavy at times through the evening.
“Expect wet roads, reduced visibility, and breezy conditions during Friday evening travel,” said the National Weather Service Charleston office in its latest advisory.
Wind gusts could reach 25–30 mph along the I-64 corridor, and localized ponding on roads may occur where rain is heaviest. Despite the incoming front, temperatures will stay mild near 70°F on Friday — but the warmth won’t last long.
The Weekend Transition: From Rain to Cold and Possible Snow
Saturday will bring a brief return to milder, drier weather as the front moves east. Sunshine should return across much of the state, with highs hovering near 68°F, making it the best day for outdoor plans this weekend.
However, the break will be short-lived. By Sunday afternoon, another cold disturbance will move in from the Midwest, ushering in colder air and scattered showers. As temperatures fall overnight, the rain may mix with or change to wet snow, especially in higher elevations and mountain valleys across eastern and central West Virginia.
Forecasters note that while accumulation is unlikely at lower elevations, residents in mountain regions like Pocahontas and Randolph counties could see light snowflakes or sleet by early Monday.
Early Next Week: First True Winter Chill Arrives
Behind the weekend system, a much colder air mass will settle over the region. Monday and Veterans Day Tuesday will bring daytime highs only in the upper 30s to low 40s, with overnight lows plunging into the mid-20s.
Wind chills could make it feel even colder during early morning hours, especially for those attending outdoor Veterans Day ceremonies.
“This will be our first true taste of winter weather this season,” NWS meteorologists warned, advising residents to bundle up and prepare for potential slick spots in the mornings.
Weather Safety and Travel Tips
With rain, gusty winds, and possible snow in the forecast, meteorologists are urging residents to plan ahead for changing conditions.
Tips for the weekend:
- Allow extra travel time during Friday’s rain.
- Watch for ponding on roads and reduced visibility.
- Dress warmly for late Sunday and early Monday as temperatures drop rapidly.
- Check heating systems and winterize vehicles before the cold arrives.
Local emergency management officials also recommend keeping flashlights, blankets, and basic supplies on hand as the state transitions into colder weather patterns.
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 mix possible late |
| Monday | 39° / 26° | Cloudy, chance of snow |
| Tuesday (Veterans Day) | 43° / 25° | Cold, brisk winds |
Conclusion
As West Virginia moves deeper into November, the state is set to experience its first wintry taste of the season. From heavy rain on Friday to potential snowflakes by Sunday night, Charleston residents should prepare for slick travel and chilly temperatures heading into next week.
What are your plans for the upcoming cold snap? Share your thoughts and weather updates in the comments below.
