A powerful winter storm is bearing down on West Virginia today, with forecasters warning of heavy snow, fierce winds and sharply deteriorating travel conditions across much of the state. As of the early hours of Friday, February 6, 2026, the National Weather Service has winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories in effect that cover a broad swath of central, northern, northeastern and southeastern West Virginia, including at least 16 counties under the most serious alerts. With snowfall totals projected between 4 and 10 inches in the hardest hit locations, and wind gusts reaching 45 to 60 miles per hour in higher terrain, both residents and travelers are being urged to prepare for treacherous roads, possible power outages and life-threatening wind chills heading into the weekend.

Storm Setup: How This Winter System Is Targeting West Virginia

The storm impacting West Virginia is part of a broader Arctic outbreak sweeping through the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, dragging in bitterly cold air behind a fast-moving system and setting up a classic high-impact winter scenario for the Mountain State. As low pressure deepens to the east and strong northwest winds wrap around the storm, moisture-laden air is being forced up and over the state’s rugged terrain. That upslope flow is expected to rapidly intensify snowfall rates along windward slopes and higher ridges from late Friday morning through Friday night.

Forecasters expect the heaviest snow bands to develop across the northern and northeastern mountains of West Virginia, where cold air and orographic lift will combine to produce sustained snowfall and intense blowing and drifting. At the same time, central and western counties, including areas along the Ohio River, will contend with a sharp drop in temperatures and periods of moderate snow that will reduce visibility and quickly coat untreated roads. While the storm’s core moisture will move through relatively quickly, strong winds on the backside of the system will prolong hazardous conditions well into Saturday.

Compounding the risk is the surge of Arctic air set to follow the snow. Behind the front, temperatures are forecast to plummet into the teens and single digits in many locations by Saturday, with wind chills falling far below zero in exposed higher elevations. That rapid freeze-up will turn any wet or slushy surfaces into solid ice, while blowing snow will continue to reduce visibility and make roadways unpredictable. For both residents and visitors accustomed to scenic winter drives in West Virginia, this storm is shaping up as one that demands caution and, where possible, postponement of nonessential travel.

Warnings, Advisories and the 16 Counties Under the Gun

As of Friday morning, the National Weather Service offices responsible for West Virginia have outlined a patchwork of watches, warnings and advisories that together form a nearly statewide alert. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for portions of northeast, northern and southeast West Virginia, including areas such as Upshur, Barbour and parts of Randolph and Pocahontas counties, where 4 to 8 inches of snow is expected, with higher amounts possible on the western ridges. In Western Greenbrier County, a separate warning calls for 4 to 10 inches of snow and wind gusts as high as 60 miles per hour, a combination that could yield near-blizzard conditions at times.

Alongside these warnings, at least 16 counties across the central and western portions of the state are under a Winter Weather Advisory, including Mason, Jackson, Wood, Pleasants, Tyler, Putnam, Kanawha, Roane, Wirt, Calhoun, Ritchie, Doddridge and others stretching from the Ohio border into the interior hills. In these locations, forecasters are calling for 2 to 4 inches of snow, accompanied by winds gusting up to 35 miles per hour. While totals will be lower than in the mountains, the timing of the snow during the day and early evening means that commutes, local errands and regional travel could all be significantly disrupted.

The weather alerts are scheduled to take effect late Friday morning, generally around 10 a.m., and to remain in place until early Saturday, with most warnings and advisories currently set to expire between 7 and 10 a.m. on February 7. During this window, conditions may change rapidly from light flurries to heavy, wind-driven snow within a matter of minutes, particularly in higher elevations and open areas. Travelers passing through corridors such as Interstate 79, US 33, US 50 and secondary mountain routes should be prepared for sudden drops in visibility and quickly accumulating snow on the roadway.

Travel Impact: Difficult to Dangerous Roads and Blowing Snow

For anyone planning to drive across West Virginia on Friday or early Saturday, this storm poses serious challenges. Even in advisory-level areas, the National Weather Service warns that the combination of 2 to 4 inches of snow and gusty winds will create slippery roads and reduced visibility, especially during the busy Friday evening commute. Bridges and overpasses, which cool more quickly than surrounding pavement, are likely to become icy first, catching drivers off-guard as temperatures tumble behind the front.

In the warning zones, conditions are expected to deteriorate more sharply. With 4 to 8 inches of snow, and in some mountainous pockets up to 10 inches, snow-covered and snow-packed roads will become the norm rather than the exception. Strong northwest winds gusting from 45 to 60 miles per hour will lift fresh powder across roadways, creating whiteout conditions, particularly in open country and on high ridges. On exposed highways such as segments of US 33 and US 48, as well as local mountain passes, blowing and drifting snow could render stretches of roadway temporarily impassable.

Officials caution that, because of the high winds, travel may remain hazardous even after the heaviest snowfall tapers off. Snowplows and salt trucks will be out in force, but drifting can quickly undo their work, redepositing snow across cleared lanes. Motorists who must be on the road are urged to slow down well below posted speed limits, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering inputs that could cause loss of control on slick surfaces. If visibility drops to near zero, the safest option is often to pull off at a safe, designated location rather than attempting to continue driving through whiteout conditions.

Risk of Power Outages and Life-Threatening Cold

Beyond travel, one of the most serious concerns with this storm is the potential for scattered power outages, particularly in the central and eastern mountains. Heavy, wet snow clinging to branches and power lines, combined with wind gusts of 45 to 60 miles per hour, is a recipe for downed limbs and snapped lines. Even in the lower elevations, winds gusting to 35 miles per hour may be sufficient to bring down weakened limbs, especially in areas that have already endured multiple rounds of winter weather this season.

For residents and visitors staying in cabins, lodges, vacation rentals or rural homes, a power loss during an Arctic outbreak can escalate quickly from inconvenience to danger. With temperatures forecast to plunge into the teens and single digits by Saturday, and wind chills dropping well below zero in many locations, homes without power could cool rapidly, particularly older or poorly insulated structures. Anyone in a remote location should ensure they have extra blankets, warm clothing, and, where appropriate and safe, alternative heat sources ready before the worst of the storm arrives.

Authorities are also emphasizing the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning associated with improper use of generators and heating devices. Portable generators must be operated outdoors and away from windows and vents, never inside homes, garages or enclosed porches. Likewise, propane heaters and similar devices should only be used as directed and with adequate ventilation. Travelers staying in hotels or roadside motels should confirm that their accommodations have backup plans and that they know where to go if extended power outages occur in their area.

Guidance for Residents and Visitors: Preparing for the Storm

Whether you live in West Virginia or are visiting to enjoy its winter landscapes, preparation is crucial as the storm intensifies. Emergency management officials recommend assembling a basic winter kit that includes water, nonperishable food, necessary medications, flashlights with extra batteries, a battery-powered or crank radio, and a fully charged mobile phone with backup power bank. For those on the road, an emergency car kit with blankets, snacks, bottled water, a shovel, sand or kitty litter, jumper cables and a small first-aid kit can prove invaluable if you become stranded.

Before the snow begins in earnest, drivers should top off fuel tanks, check tire tread and pressure, and confirm that windshield washer fluid is rated for freezing temperatures. If your plans involve mountain travel, particularly toward ski areas or remote cabin rentals, consider shifting departure times to earlier in the day or postponing trips entirely until road crews have had time to clear major routes. Many travel disruptions occur not during the height of a storm but in the transition from rain or light snow to heavy, blowing snow as temperatures plunge.

Inside the home or lodging, simple steps such as setting thermostats slightly higher before the front arrives, closing blinds or curtains, and opening cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls can help protect plumbing during severe cold. Pet owners should ensure animals are brought indoors or provided with warm, dry shelter, fresh water that does not freeze, and extra food to help them maintain body heat. Travelers staying in rental properties should familiarize themselves in advance with local emergency contacts, the nearest shelter or warming center, and alternate routes should primary roads close or become impassable.

Implications for Winter Recreation and Scenic Travel

West Virginia’s mountains are a magnet for winter recreation, drawing skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers and scenic drivers throughout the season. This storm, however, calls for a more cautious approach. While the fresh snowfall will ultimately benefit ski slopes and snow sport enthusiasts, the short-term impact is likely to be limited or delayed access to some resort areas and trailheads as road crews work to keep mountain routes open. Exposed ridgelines may experience extreme wind chills, reducing the margin for error for anyone venturing far from shelter.

For those already in resort communities or mountain lodges, the best plan may be to treat Friday afternoon and evening as a time to hunker down rather than drive between locations or attempt long scenic loops across multiple counties. After the storm passes and roads are cleared, conditions could be spectacular, with deep powder in higher elevations and crisp, clear views as Arctic air settles in. However, that reward is likely to arrive late Saturday or Sunday rather than during the height of the event.

Scenic byways and lesser-traveled backroads pose particular risks once snow and wind intensify. Even experienced local drivers can be caught out by drifting snow that hides ice or masks the true edge of the pavement. Visitors unfamiliar with the terrain should be especially wary of mountain switchbacks, narrow shoulders and unguarded drop-offs that may be obscured by plowed banks or blowing snow. When in doubt, prioritize main corridors, follow official travel advisories and avoid the temptation to push deeper into backcountry areas until the weather stabilizes.

The Takeaway

As West Virginia braces for this major winter storm, the key message for both residents and travelers is straightforward: treat the warnings seriously and prepare for rapidly changing conditions from Friday morning through early Saturday. Heavy snow, strong winds and an influx of Arctic air are combining to create a high-impact event across at least 16 counties, with difficult to dangerous travel, increased risk of power outages and life-threatening wind chills in exposed areas.

For travelers, flexibility is essential. Adjust itineraries, build in extra time, and be willing to postpone or reroute trips to avoid the storm’s peak. For locals and visitors staying put, a bit of preparation now, from emergency kits to protective measures around the home, can significantly reduce risk and stress if conditions worsen. West Virginia’s winter beauty will still be there after the snow settles. By respecting the power of this storm and heeding official guidance, you can help ensure that your next journey through the Mountain State remains memorable for all the right reasons.

FAQ

Q1: When will the worst of the storm hit West Virginia?
The heaviest snow and strongest winds are expected between late Friday morning, February 6, and the pre-dawn hours of Saturday, February 7, with conditions gradually improving later on Saturday.

Q2: Which parts of West Virginia are expected to see the most snow?
The northern and northeastern mountains, including parts of Upshur, Barbour, Randolph, Pocahontas and Western Greenbrier counties, are forecast to see 4 to 10 inches of snow, with the highest totals along western-facing ridges.

Q3: How dangerous will travel be during the storm?
Travel could range from difficult to dangerous, especially Friday afternoon and evening, as snow accumulates on roads, visibility drops in heavy and blowing snow, and bridges and overpasses become slick or icy.

Q4: Are power outages likely?
Scattered outages are possible, particularly in areas with heavy snow and wind gusts above 45 miles per hour, where tree limbs and power lines may be brought down by the combined weight of snow and strong winds.

Q5: What should I keep in my car if I must travel?
If travel is unavoidable, pack blankets, warm clothing, water, snacks, a flashlight with extra batteries, a scraper or brush, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, jumper cables and a fully charged phone with a backup power source.

Q6: How cold will it feel after the storm?
Behind the storm, actual temperatures are expected to fall into the teens and single digits, with wind chills dropping well below zero in many locations, especially on exposed ridges and higher elevations.

Q7: Is it safe to use a generator during a power outage?
Generators can be used safely only if operated outdoors, away from windows and vents, and never inside homes, garages or enclosed spaces, to avoid deadly carbon monoxide buildup.

Q8: Will ski resorts and winter recreation areas remain open?
Many resorts will aim to operate, but access roads and lift operations may be limited during the height of the storm, so visitors should check local conditions, expect delays and prioritize safety over sticking to a fixed schedule.

Q9: What can I do at home to prepare for possible power loss?
Charge devices, gather flashlights, extra batteries, blankets and nonperishable food, set your thermostat slightly higher before the storm, and ensure you have a safe heating backup plan if temperatures drop indoors.

Q10: Should visitors consider postponing trips to West Virginia this weekend?
Travelers with flexible plans should strongly consider delaying arrival or departure until after the storm’s peak and the main roads have been cleared, both for their own safety and to reduce strain on emergency and road crews.