Climate and monthly weather forecast
West Virginia, USA

West Virginia has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa) with warm summers and cold winters. Virginia in the southeast, Kentucky in the southwest, Ohio in the northwest, Pennsylvania in the north, and Maryland in the east, border the state. The climate varies considerably at higher altitudes (Köppen Cfb and Dfb) in the mountain ranges of the state.

West Virginia, the Mountain state, majorly consists of mountainous terrain and rolling hills that are part of the Appalachian Mountain Range. The Allegheny Mountains lie in the eastern part of the state and receive a large amount of rainfall, especially at altitudes over 2500 meters. Many rivers such as the Potomac and the Shenandoah, lakes, wetlands, swamps, and forests constitute the topography of the state. West Virginia is a region with natural challenges that are popular with adventure seekers, winter sports lovers, hunters, rock climbers, and hikers.

Summers are hot and humid, but the temperatures rarely go above 95°F (35°C). Rainfall occurs throughout the year but reaches a peak between June and August. Spring is warm but experiences frequent rainfall. Autumn is mild in the early and middle season, and the foliage is colorful.
Overall, the period from May to October is the best time to visit West Virginia - though, keep in mind that summer is also the peak tourist season and draws large crowds. The mountain climate in the eastern region is colder than the rest of the state during peak summer, which is an excellent time for hiking and backpacking.

Winter is the worst time to visit West Virginia as the weather is cold, and temperatures are below freezing.
Fog is a constant companion as the cloudy skies hide the sun for many days. Snow and rain both are persistent during the winter, and the roads are icy. Winter is a slow season for tourism but attracts some visitors for activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. West Virginia receives 40" (1016mm) to 120" (3048mm) of snow in the various regions of the state.

Spring in West Virginia ushers in a period of warmth and rejuvenation. However, this season also sees its fair share of rainfall. New foliage begins to emerge, painting the landscape in fresh shades of green. The state's vast forests come alive with blossoming flora and fauna. Rivers and lakes, replenished by spring rains, offer captivating vistas and become hubs for various water-based activities.

The summer months in West Virginia are marked by high temperatures ranging from 82°F (27.8°C) to 87°F (30.6°C). Despite the heat, the evenings grant a refreshing respite, turning cooler by 10°F (-12.2°C) to 20°F (-6.7°C) (from 10°F (-12.2°C) to 19.9°F (-6.7°C)) than daytime. The humidity level often escalates during this season, making some days feel warmer than they actually are. While rain showers are a common occurrence, they don't deter the adventurers and tourists who flock to the state's natural attractions.

Autumn in West Virginia is a visual treat. The early and middle parts of the season are relatively mild, providing an ideal backdrop for the state's changing foliage. From vibrant oranges to deep reds, the leaves transform the landscape into a mesmerizing tapestry. While the climate remains temperate, occasional gusts of wind add to the season's charm. It's a time when the state's natural beauty is at its peak, attracting countless photographers and nature lovers.

West Virginia's winter is characterized by cold days and even colder nights. Temperatures frequently dip below freezing, with average lows hovering between 15°F (-9.4°C) to 25°F (-3.9°C). Snowfall is a defining feature of the season, with various regions of the state receiving between 40" (1016mm) to 120" (3048mm) of snow. The eastern highlands, in particular, witness more snow accumulation than other areas. Moreover, cloudy skies are a common sight, with sunlight being a rare commodity during these chilly months.

January firmly establishes itself as the trough of winter in West Virginia. With average low temperatures hovering between 15°F (-9.4°C) to 25°F (-3.9°C), it's evident that January stands out as one of the coldest months of the year. Weather in January »

As winter progresses in West Virginia, February ushers in marginally milder conditions compared to the biting cold of January. However, the month is still predominantly cold, with temperatures fluctuating between 18°F (-7.8°C) to 28°F (-2.2°C). Weather in February »

March signals the advent of spring in West Virginia, marking a noticeable shift from the chillier winter months. Average temperatures typically range from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 40°F (4.4°C), reflecting a steady yet moderate climb on the thermometer. Weather in March »

April in West Virginia is a testament to the full bloom of spring. The month witnesses a more significant rise in temperatures, typically spanning from 35°F (1.7°C) to 58°F (14.4°C). This warmer weather pattern encourages the blossoming of flora across the state. Weather in April »

May is a vibrant month for West Virginia, setting the stage for the impending summer. With temperatures comfortably nestled between 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21.1°C), May offers a blend of warm days and mild nights. The eastern highlands, including locations like Snowshoe, bask in the mellow warmth, their terrains now completely free from the remnants of winter. Weather in May »

June ushers in the heart of summer in West Virginia, with temperatures typically oscillating between 58°F (14.4°C) to 82°F (27.8°C). As the warmth intensifies, the state's natural beauty unfurls in its full glory. The eastern highlands, areas such as Snowshoe, witness clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor escapades. Weather in June »

July stands out as the zenith of summer in West Virginia, presenting the warmest weather of the year. Temperatures often soar, hovering between 62°F (16.7°C) to 87°F (30.6°C). The eastern highlands, even places like Snowshoe, feel the summer's intensity, though they remain slightly cooler than the lower elevations, offering a haven for those seeking milder conditions. Weather in July »

August in West Virginia serves as the bridge between the peak of summer and the early hints of autumn. Temperatures, while still warm, exhibit a gradual decline, ranging typically from 60°F (15.6°C) to 85°F (29.4°C). The eastern highlands, including locales such as Snowshoe, begin to experience cooler nights, forecasting the impending seasonal change. Weather in August »

September ushers in the magic of autumn to West Virginia, with temperatures beginning to mellow, usually fluctuating between 52°F (11.1°C) to 77°F (25°C). The eastern highlands, regions including Snowshoe, start showcasing the first vivid colors of fall, painting a picture-perfect backdrop for travelers and photographers alike. Weather in September »

October in West Virginia is synonymous with the full splendor of autumn. Temperatures start to dip more significantly, generally hovering between 42°F (5.6°C) to 68°F (20°C). The eastern highlands, places such as Snowshoe, become awash with a palette of rich fall colors, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Weather in October »

West Virginia in November is emblematic of the transition from autumn's golden hues to winter's icy embrace. Temperatures continue their descent, usually settling between 32°F (0°C) to 55°F (12.8°C). The eastern highlands, including areas like Snowshoe, witness the last remnants of fall colors being swiftly replaced by the bareness that precedes winter snows. Weather in November »

December marks the official commencement of winter in West Virginia, with temperatures predominantly ranging from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 45°F (7.2°C). The eastern highlands, particularly regions like Snowshoe, often find themselves blanketed under a thick layer of snow, turning them into winter wonderlands. Weather in December »