WEST VIRGINIA — Snowfall and slippery conditions forecast across several regions of West Virginia may force schools to delay or cancel classes on Monday, according to current winter weather advisories from the National Weather Service.
Accumulations and icy travel are expected to impact both the morning and evening commute, especially in mountain and southern counties.
Southern and Southeastern Counties at Higher Risk
Counties under a winter weather advisory from 1 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday include portions of Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, Webster, and Pocahontas counties.
These areas could see 2 to 4 inches of snow, with localized totals of up to 5 inches on higher ridges. Cities such as Beckley, Oak Hill, Summersville, Richwood, Snowshoe, and Marlinton may face hazardous travel early Monday, increasing the likelihood of school impacts.
Southwest Counties May Also See Closures
Another advisory covering McDowell, Wyoming, Logan, Mingo, Boone, Clay, and Braxton counties forecasts 1 to 3 inches of snow, possibly leading to slick roads before sunrise.
Children commuting from rural and hilly areas near Welch, Pineville, Logan, Chapmanville, Sutton, and Gassaway may face dangerous travel conditions, particularly where untreated secondary roads freeze overnight.
Central and Northern Mountain Schools on Alert
Elevated portions of central counties could also be affected. Snowfall reaching 2 to 4 inches in parts of Upshur, Barbour, Randolph, and northern Pocahontas may make it difficult for buses navigating steep mountain routes. Communities around Elkins, Buckhannon, and Philippi may see delays if temperatures drop quickly before daybreak.
Icy Conditions Could Persist Tuesday Morning
Forecasters warn that temperatures may fall sharply Monday evening, creating the risk of black ice overnight into Tuesday morning, even if snowfall tapers off. This increases the chance of not only Monday closures but also delayed openings Tuesday in areas hit hardest by freezing conditions.
Parents Should Monitor Local Alerts
Families are encouraged to:
- Check school district announcements Sunday night and early Monday
- Track road conditions through 511
- Expect possible bus delays if schools open on time
School decisions will be made district by district, but the combination of early morning snow, cold road surfaces and steep rural routes puts many West Virginia counties at risk of closures or delays Monday.
