Snow Targets Northern and Central West Virginia as Winter Weather Focuses Along the I-64 Corridor and Northern Panhandle

Charleston, West Virginia; December 13th, 2025.

West Virginia moved into an active winter weather pattern late Friday night and early Saturday as a snow-producing system tracked along a southerly route through the Ohio Valley, placing much of the state under official winter weather alerts issued by the U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE, with the highest confidence for meaningful snowfall centered across northern, north central, and portions of central West Virginia.

According to forecast discussions and warning products released by the U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE, snow developed overnight Friday into Saturday morning as cold air was firmly established across the state and moisture associated with the passing system spread northeastward. This setup, common in Appalachian winter events, favors steady snowfall where colder air is locked in and terrain enhances lift, particularly north of the I-64 corridor and along the Ohio River Valley.

The most significant snowfall is expected across northern West Virginia and the Northern Panhandle. In Ohio County, the U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE has issued a Winter Storm Warning calling for total snow accumulations generally ranging from 6 to 10 inches through Sunday afternoon, with locally higher amounts possible under persistent snow bands. Officials note that snowfall rates may be sufficient at times to reduce visibility and rapidly cover roadways, especially during overnight and early morning hours.

Farther south, the Mid Ohio Valley remains firmly within the primary impact zone. In Wood County and surrounding areas, the U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE forecasts widespread snowfall totals of approximately 5 to 7 inches through Sunday afternoon. Snow is expected to accumulate efficiently as surface temperatures remain below freezing for much of the event, increasing the potential for slick travel conditions across untreated roads and elevated surfaces.

North central West Virginia is also positioned for impactful snowfall. The U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA OFFICE includes Upshur County within a Winter Storm Warning area, with forecast totals generally ranging from 4 to 8 inches. Forecasters caution that snowfall amounts may vary significantly over short distances due to banding and terrain effects, a frequent characteristic of winter storms across the Appalachian region.

Central West Virginia, including the Charleston metropolitan area and surrounding counties, is expected to see moderate but still impactful snowfall. In Kanawha County, the U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE has issued a Winter Storm Warning citing anticipated accumulations between 3 and 6 inches. While totals here are lower than farther north, officials emphasize that even moderate snowfall can produce hazardous travel, particularly during heavier bursts or where snowfall coincides with overnight lows.

Southern West Virginia and the southern coalfields remain closer to the southern edge of the primary snow band. While periods of light snow are possible, confidence remains highest for lighter accumulations compared to the northern half of the state. Forecasters note that minor shifts in the storm track could bring locally higher totals into parts of the southern counties; however, current guidance keeps the core snowfall axis north of this region.

The U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE continues to monitor a second system expected to affect the region later Saturday into Saturday night, noting that this follow-up system may bring additional snowfall and reinforce cold conditions across much of the state. Officials advise residents to stay alert for updates, as winter weather impacts may persist through Sunday.

Travel impacts are expected across much of West Virginia through the weekend, particularly in areas under Winter Storm Warnings. The U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE urges motorists to exercise caution, allow extra travel time, and remain prepared for rapidly changing road conditions as snowfall continues.

Sources

• U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
• U.S. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA OFFICE