WEST VIRGINIA — A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for much of central, northern and southeastern West Virginia, with significant snowfall possible from late Saturday night through Monday evening.
The National Weather Service is forecasting widespread snow across counties including Clay, Braxton, Lewis, Taylor, Upshur, Barbour, Raleigh, Fayette, Nicholas, Webster, Pocahontas and Randolph. Cities such as Beckley, Oak Hill, Fayetteville, Summersville, Richwood, Webster Springs, Elkins, Buckhannon, Philippi, Grafton and Snowshoe are included in the watch area.
Forecasters say heavy lake-effect snow could bring total accumulations between 5 and 12 inches in many locations. Wind gusts up to 40 mph are also possible, which could create blowing and drifting snow and sharply reduced visibility.
In the higher elevations of Randolph, Pocahontas and Webster counties — including Snowshoe, Marlinton and Harman — snowfall totals could exceed 6 inches, with locally higher amounts along ridgelines. Snow is expected to stick more efficiently Sunday night into Monday, increasing the likelihood of hazardous road conditions.
Farther south in Summers and western Greenbrier counties, including Hinton and Rainelle, snowfall totals between 2 and 8 inches are possible through Monday evening.
In eastern West Virginia, including western Grant and western Pendleton counties, 6 inches or more of snow could accumulate by Monday afternoon, especially at higher elevations.
Travel conditions across the Mountain State could become very difficult, particularly during the Monday morning and evening commutes. Officials warn that snowfall amounts may vary significantly over short distances, especially in lake-effect snow bands, where heavy snow can fall in one area while nearby locations see lighter amounts.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and delay travel if possible. Drivers who must be on the road should use extreme caution, allow extra travel time and prepare for rapidly changing weather and road conditions.
