Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio – A round of winter weather is set to impact parts of the central Appalachians and Ohio Valley beginning late Thursday night, with accumulating snow expected to create slick roads and travel disruptions into Friday. Forecasters are also monitoring a stronger system that could bring heavier snowfall to the region over the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday through 1 p.m. Friday, with snowfall totals ranging from 1 to 4 inches across multiple counties. In some locations, especially higher elevations, snow amounts could exceed forecasts.
Snowfall timing and expected impacts
Snow is expected to begin late Thursday evening and intensify overnight, continuing through the Friday morning commute. Meteorologists say the combination of steady snowfall and cold pavement temperatures could result in slick and hazardous driving conditions, particularly during early morning hours.
In southeast Raleigh and southeast Fayette counties in West Virginia, locally higher snowfall totals of up to 5 inches are possible. These areas may experience reduced visibility and snow-covered roads for an extended period.
Officials warn that bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads will become slippery first, increasing the risk of accidents during peak travel times.
Areas included in the Winter Weather Advisory
The advisory covers a broad portion of three states, including:
In northeast Kentucky, affected counties include Greenup, Carter, Boyd, and Lawrence.
In southwest Virginia, the advisory includes Dickenson and Buchanan counties.
In southern and western West Virginia, counties under the advisory include Wayne, Lincoln, Mingo, Logan, Boone, McDowell, Wyoming, along with Raleigh and Fayette county zones.
Cities and communities expected to see impacts include Ashland, Louisa, Huntington, Logan, Beckley, Oak Hill, Madison, Welch, and Pineville, among others.
Advisory extends into southeast Ohio and western West Virginia
Farther west, southeast Ohio counties including Jackson, Gallia, and Lawrence are also under the Winter Weather Advisory through early Friday afternoon. In western West Virginia, counties such as Cabell, Mason, Putnam, and Kanawha are included.
Snowfall in these areas is expected to be lighter overall but could still lead to slippery roads and slowed travel, especially overnight and during the morning commute.
Winter Storm Watch issued for the weekend
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for portions of southeast Ohio and southern and western West Virginia from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon.
Forecasters say a more organized weather system could bring 3 to 5 inches of snow, with the potential for higher totals depending on how the storm develops. Confidence in exact snowfall amounts will increase as the weekend approaches, but residents should be prepared for renewed travel difficulties and possible disruptions.
Travel and safety guidance
Officials urge drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time during snowy conditions. Visibility may decrease quickly during heavier snow bands, making sudden stops and lane changes dangerous.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and road conditions before traveling. State 511 services provide real-time updates on highway conditions, closures, and traffic incidents across Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio.
Those living in hilly or rural areas should also be prepared for localized power outages if snow accumulates on trees and power lines, particularly during the weekend system.
What to expect next
Weather officials will continue to refine snowfall forecasts as updated data becomes available. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued if conditions worsen or if weekend snowfall totals trend higher.
Residents across the region should stay alert, keep emergency supplies in vehicles, and limit travel when possible during periods of heavier snow.
Have you experienced hazardous road conditions or snowfall in your area today? Share your experiences in the comments below.
