CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The Mountain State will see several inches of snow in some parts Thursday into Friday, according to the National Weather Service.
After a mild winter and several 70-80 degree days this week, NWS Meteorologist Simone Lewis said snow in April is not uncommon.
“It does happen. Snow in April is not uncommon at all, particularly across the mountainous counties,” Lewis said.
Temperatures will fall below freezing throughout the day Thursday before a mix of rain and snow moves into the state Thursday night.
Lewis said the northern and central mountains will see the most snow. The lowlands will see little to no accumulation.
“Generally, elevations above 3,000 feet could see 5-8 inches. Other areas across the northern and central mountains, generally, 1-3, possibly 4 inches,” Lewis said.
Windy conditions are also in the forecast which will create a “blowing snow,” Lewis said. Wind gusts could reach up to 55 miles per hour in some parts.
“Tonight when the snow starts flying that’s when you’ll get that blowing snow and the reduced visibility across the mountains,” she said.
The NWS issued Winter Weather Advisories Thursday morning for Mercer, Summers, Monroe and Greenbrier counties. The advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. Friday.
Motorists along Interstate 81 and Interstate 77 should be prepared for strong cross winds, the NWS said. Downed trees could create power outages during the storm.
The snow will taper off Friday. Mild temperatures are in the weekend forecast.
“The weekend is actually looking really nice. We’re looking at dry weather and temperatures rebounding up into the 60s again,” Lewis said.