The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Upshur County, with 6 to 10 inches of snow expected from Saturday afternoon through early Monday morning.
The warning takes effect at 1 p.m. Saturday and runs through 2 a.m. Monday.
“Heavy snow is expected,” the warning states. “Travel could be very difficult.”
Snow is expected to begin mainly after 5 p.m. Saturday, with conditions intensifying overnight. The heaviest snowfall is forecast for Saturday night, when 4 to 8 inches could fall and “the snow could be heavy at times,” according to the forecast.
In its forecast discussion, the weather service said snow ratios will start somewhat low and then increase as colder air moves in Saturday night into Sunday. The higher ratios mean fluffier snow that will “easily pile up.”
The weather service noted that mountain areas “in particular will see decent snowfall accumulations.”
Behind the snow comes bitter cold. An arctic front will push through, sending temperatures plunging from a high near 37 on Saturday to a low around 12 Saturday night. Sunday’s high will struggle to reach 17, with wind chills dropping to 1 below zero.
“Much colder air filters in for Sunday,” the NWS notes, “with temperatures falling Sunday into the teens area-wide, and single digits in the mountains.”
The weather service has issued an extreme cold watch for higher elevations in Pocahontas and Randolph counties from 4 a.m. Sunday through 10 a.m. Monday, where wind chills could reach 25 below zero with wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph possible across mountain ridges.
Monday morning will bring single-digit temperatures across the region and below zero readings in the mountains. Conditions will gradually dry out late Sunday night into Monday as high pressure moves in, with partly sunny skies and a high near 25.
Temperatures are expected to moderate through midweek, with the possibility of climbing above normal by week’s end.
For those who must travel during the storm, the weather service advises keeping an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle. Road conditions can be obtained by calling 511.
“Persons should consider delaying all travel,” the warning states. “If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution.”
The weather service recommends a winter storm kit that includes tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water and a first-aid kit.
