Winter Storm Impacts Virginia and West Virginia with Heavy Snow
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) — A winter storm swept through portions of West Virginia and Virginia early Wednesday, delivering significant snowfall and cold temperatures. Residents are urged to exercise caution while traveling as accumulation may reach three to six inches in southern regions.
The snowfall is expected to be heaviest in the morning and taper off to scattered flurries by the afternoon. Temperatures across the region will remain in the low 20s, making road conditions hazardous. Reports indicate that I-64 could experience 1 to 3 inches of snow, while higher elevations in the southern mountains may see up to six inches or more.
“Make sure to bundle up and take care if you have to head out,” a WSAZ meteorologist advised, noting the potential for icy roads. Visibility may also be reduced during peak snowfall hours.
Meanwhile, in Richmond, Va., the National Weather Service has placed the area under a Winter Storm Warning as light snow has already begun accumulating. Forecasts suggest Richmond could receive 2 to 6 inches of snow, with up to 6 inches possible in areas located southeast of the city. As temperatures hover in the 20s, the snow is likely to accumulate quickly.
“We expect the heaviest snowfall by the late morning,” said Andrew Freiden, a local meteorologist. “There will be a sharp cut-off on the northwestern side of the system, which means some areas may see significantly less snow.”
The winter storm is also prompting residents to stock up essential supplies such as shovels, salt, and firewood as they prepare for potential power outages, although officials state that the snow may not be heavy enough to cause tree damage.
As the storm moves out, Richmond will see diminishing snowfall after sunset, with another possible half-inch occurring Thursday morning before clearing takes place. Residents have also faced flooding concerns following the rising James River levels, which led to the opening of the Dock Street floodwall.
In Hazard, Ky., the winter storm has already begun affecting residents with snow accumulations expected to continue throughout the day. Light snow is predicted to linger into Thursday morning. The weather forecast indicates highs will remain below freezing into the week, contributing to icy conditions.
“We anticipate that most snowfall will clear by Thursday afternoon, but be prepared for temperatures that will remain quite low,” warned local meteorologists.
Forecasts suggest a brief warm-up by Saturday, with temperatures rising into the 40s and potentially reaching the 50s by the following week, offering some relief from the extreme cold.
