Winter Storm Delivers Heavy Snow Across Virginia and West Virginia as Warnings Expand and Totals Rise
RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — A fast-moving winter storm swept across Virginia and West Virginia on Monday, delivering the region’s most widespread early-season snowfall in years and prompting upgraded Winter Storm Warnings as snow accumulation forecasts increased through the morning. Meteorologists reported growing confidence in heavier snow bands, with accumulations rising from the Appalachians through central and eastern Virginia.
Snow Intensifies Across Virginia and West Virginia
Forecast models and live radar showed a well-organized storm producing 2–4 inches of snow across much of Virginia and West Virginia, with higher totals in localized mountain regions.
Based on National Weather Service data and 48-hour accumulation projections:
- Roanoke, VA: ~3.7 inches
- Richmond, VA: ~3.6 inches
- Charlottesville, VA: ~2.9 inches
- Harrisonburg, VA: ~2.4 inches
- Charleston, WV: ~2.3 inches
- Beckley, WV: Significant widespread snow
- Pikeville, KY (border region): ~1.4 inches
- Danville, VA: ~2.1 inches
The snowfall shield expanded early Monday morning, covering regions from Lexington and Roanoke eastward into Richmond, Fredericksburg, and the I-95 corridor. Heavy bands were visible across West Virginia’s mountains, where early flurries turned into steady accumulation by mid-morning.
Storm Track Still on Schedule as Confidence Increases
Meteorologists tracking the event confirmed that the storm has behaved largely as expected, though slightly colder temperatures allowed for improved snow ratios, increasing totals in some areas.
Forecast discussions noted:
- Snowfall began in western counties before sunrise.
- Heaviest snow developed late morning into early afternoon.
- The storm moved east but maintained cold air on its western side.
- Upgraded warnings were issued for regions where totals increased.
Enhanced model guidance showed a consistent swath of snow across:
- Southwest Virginia
- Central Virginia (including Richmond and Lynchburg)
- Western and Central West Virginia
Live HRRR model maps illustrated a solid shield of snow stretching from Somerset and Pikeville through Bluefield, Roanoke, Staunton, and Richmond, with rain transitioning to snow along the southern edge near North Carolina.
Travel Impacts Expected Across Both States
Even with modest totals, road conditions deteriorated quickly due to below-freezing pavement temperatures in parts of both states.
Key impacts included:
- Slick highways along I-64, I-81, and I-77
- Reduced visibility under heavier bands
- Early dismissals or schedule changes for some districts
- Snow-covered secondary and mountain roads
Virginia’s Piedmont region, including Charlottesville and Richmond, saw accumulating snow earlier than expected, increasing concerns for the afternoon commute.
West Virginia’s mountainous terrain experienced snowfall rates high enough to create temporary whiteout pockets.
Winter Storm Warnings and Advisories Expanded
Weather service maps showed significant coverage of advisories across both states:
- Winter Storm Warnings expanded in central and southwest Virginia, including the Roanoke–Lynchburg corridor.
- Winter Weather Advisories covered most of West Virginia, except far northern counties.
- Coastal Virginia, from Norfolk to Virginia Beach, saw lighter totals but remained under advisories due to slick conditions.
These alerts remained in effect through Tuesday morning for most regions.
More Snow Possible as System Exits Overnight
While snowfall began tapering from the west Monday afternoon, lingering moisture and cold temperatures suggested:
- Additional light snow overnight
- Freezing slush and refreezing on untreated roads
- Wind gusts that may reduce visibility in open areas
Snow totals will continue to be updated as new data comes in, but meteorologists maintain that this storm marks one of the earliest widespread December snowfalls for Virginia and West Virginia in recent years.
Stay Safe and Stay Weather-Aware
As conditions evolve, residents across both states are urged to monitor local forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel during peak snowfall, and prepare for slick conditions Tuesday morning.
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