Charleston, West Virginia, is about to face a severe winter storm that could bring the city to a standstill. The National Weather Service has officially issued a Winter Storm Warning that will remain in effect from early Tuesday morning (4 AM EST) through Wednesday (11 AM EST). With heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and dangerous road conditions expected, residents are being urged to stay vigilant.
So, what exactly is heading Charleston’s way? Here’s the full breakdown of the forecast:
- Snowfall: A total of 3 to 5 inches of snow is expected to blanket the region, making roads slippery and visibility poor.
- Freezing Rain: Icy conditions will accompany the snowfall, with an additional one-tenth of an inch of ice accumulation.
- Hazardous Driving: Both the Tuesday morning and evening commutes will likely be affected, with icy, slushy roads causing significant travel delays.
Why It Matters:
This storm could disrupt day-to-day life in Charleston, including school schedules, business operations, and local transportation. Driving on untreated roads could be dangerous, especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than regular roads.
Day-by-Day Breakdown for Charleston, West Virginia
Tuesday: Expect steady snowfall throughout the day. Temperatures will hover around 38°F (3°C) during the day, dropping to 34°F (1°C) by night. Winds will be mild, but conditions on the ground will be treacherous.
Wednesday: The snowfall will ease up, but clouds will linger, and rain showers could develop by late afternoon. Temperatures will warm slightly, reaching a high of 46°F (8°C) before falling again overnight.
Thursday: A brief respite from the snow as the skies remain cloudy, but temperatures will spike to 52°F (11°C). However, don’t let your guard down—cold air will return at night, with lows around 23°F (-5°C).
Safety Tips for Charleston Residents
- Limit Travel: Only drive if it’s necessary. If you must go out, allow extra time and drive slowly.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Keep an emergency kit with food, water, a flashlight, blankets, and a phone charger.
- Check Local Updates: Stay tuned to weather alerts on local radio or your smartphone.
- Protect Yourself from the Cold: Dress in layers, and make sure exposed skin is covered to avoid frostbite.
What About Charleston, South Carolina?
Meanwhile, Charleston, SC, will experience very different weather this week—no snow, but clouds and occasional showers will dominate the forecast.
Tuesday: Cloudy skies and a slight chance of rain showers, with highs around 61°F (16°C).
Wednesday: The city will warm up significantly to 68°F (20°C), but the day will be mostly cloudy with light breezes.
Thursday: The warmest day of the week, reaching 72°F (22°C). However, afternoon thunderstorms are possible, so keep an umbrella handy.
No major weather alerts are currently in place for Charleston, South Carolina, but residents should still be aware of sudden downpours.
Conclusion: Stay Alert and Be Prepared
For those in Charleston, West Virginia, this winter storm will be a serious test of patience and preparation. If you have plans to travel or commute on Tuesday and Wednesday, reconsider or adjust your schedule accordingly. Make sure to prepare your home and vehicle, and stay updated through trusted weather services.
As for Charleston, South Carolina, while no severe alerts are in place, keep an eye on possible thunderstorms later in the week.
