Cooler Weather and Record Lows Expected Across West Virginia 8/21

Photo byNational Weather Service

Canadian air mass brings unseasonably low temperatures, with potential for record-setting cold nights.

Charleston, WV — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:01 AM EDT on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

Cool Canadian Air Brings Record-Low Temperatures to West Virginia

A strong dome of high pressure from Canada is bringing unusually cool weather to West Virginia this week, as forecasted by the National Weather Service in Charleston. Temperatures will remain below normal through Thursday, and many areas may experience record-setting low temperatures during the mornings.

As of Wednesday morning, temperatures are expected to drop into the 40s across much of the region, including the lowlands, where the forecast predicts lows in the upper 40s to low 50s. The mountains will feel even cooler, with some areas above 3,500 feet seeing temperatures dip into the upper 30s. Elkins and other mountainous locations may approach or break longstanding record lows set in previous decades.

Fog and Cool Afternoons Ahead

The cooler air mass will also bring a possibility of patchy fog in the morning, especially in river valleys and mountainous regions. Once the fog lifts, temperatures are expected to rebound into the 70s by the afternoon in the lowlands, and the upper 50s to low 70s in the mountains. Despite the cooler start, the days will feel pleasant, with low humidity contributing to comfortable conditions across the state.

The cool trend is forecast to continue through Thursday night, with temperatures remaining well below the seasonal average. However, the National Weather Service notes that Wednesday night will not be quite as cool as the previous night, but still significantly below normal.

Warmer Weather Expected by Late Week

The high pressure system will remain in place, ensuring dry and sunny conditions through the weekend. By Friday, temperatures will rise, approaching more typical late-August norms. Highs could reach the 90s in some lowland areas, bringing a return to warmer weather by the end of the week.

Aviation Impact: Morning Fog Possible

The aviation forecast indicates that low clouds and patchy fog may affect visibility during the early morning hours, particularly in areas like Beckley and Elkins. Conditions are expected to improve by mid-morning, with VFR weather returning across the region by 16z (12 PM EDT). Pilots should be aware of potential LIFR or VLIFR conditions in valley locations.

Seek Out Updates

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