Multiple inches of snow possible in parts of West Virginia Thursday

WEST VIRGINIA — Although today marks the first day of spring, winter conditions are still hanging on in West Virginia.

A strong cold front will move through the region this morning, bringing widespread rain showers and possibly a few thunderstorms.

Another round of precipitation is expected later in the afternoon, followed by a significant drop in temperatures.

As colder air moves in, rain will transition into a mix of rain and snow in higher elevations this evening before turning into all snow overnight.

Light snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches is possible in the mountains, while the lowlands are unlikely to see much accumulation.

In addition to the rain and snow, strong winds will impact higher elevations, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph.

A Wind Advisory is in effect from 8 p.m. Thursday through 8 a.m. Friday for Southeast Randolph and Northwest Pocahontas Counties.

The combination of dry conditions and gusty winds will also keep the risk of wildfires elevated overnight.

After a brief period of dry weather on Friday, another active weather pattern will bring additional rain and snow chances over the weekend and into early next week.