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WV Braces for Dramatic Weather Shift: Spring-Like Day to Ice Storm

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 15:46 GMT by WSAZ
      Locales: West Virginia, UNITED STATES

Huntington, WV - February 27th, 2026 - Residents of the WSAZ viewing area are bracing for a dramatic shift in weather conditions, going from a nearly spring-like Saturday to a potentially dangerous winter storm early next week. Meteorologists are warning of a complex system bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and particularly, significant ice accumulation, posing travel hazards and potential power outages.

Today's forecast paints a picture of pleasant conditions. High temperatures are expected to soar into the low to mid-60s under sunny skies. This unseasonably warm weather offers a welcome reprieve after a relatively mild winter so far, and many are expected to take advantage of the opportunity for outdoor activities. However, this tranquility is short-lived. A strong cold front is poised to sweep across the region on Sunday, drastically changing the weather landscape.

The arrival of the cold front will be swift and significant. Temperatures will plummet throughout the day on Sunday, potentially dropping by 30-40 degrees from Saturday's highs. While Sunday will likely remain dry, the rapid temperature change will set the stage for the incoming winter storm. The front will create the perfect conditions for precipitation to fall as a wintry mix.

The primary concern is an ice storm developing late Monday and persisting into Tuesday. While snow and sleet are anticipated, meteorologists are particularly worried about the potential for prolonged periods of freezing rain. Even a light coating of ice can make roads and sidewalks treacherous, leading to accidents and injuries. A thicker layer of ice, however, could cause widespread power outages as tree limbs and power lines buckle under the weight.

"This isn't just a dusting of snow," explained WSAZ Chief Meteorologist, Sarah Miller, in a briefing this afternoon. "We're looking at a scenario where ice accumulation could exceed half an inch in some areas, especially along higher elevations. That level of ice is enough to bring down trees and cause significant damage."

Emergency management officials are urging residents to prepare for potential disruptions. This includes stocking up on essential supplies such as food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries. They also recommend fully charging electronic devices and having a backup heating source available in case of power outages. The WSAZ viewing area includes diverse terrain, from the slightly higher elevations of the Appalachian foothills to the lower lying areas along the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers. This means ice accumulation and the specific type of precipitation will vary across the region, making precise forecasting challenging.

Travel is expected to be severely impacted Monday and Tuesday. The West Virginia Department of Transportation is pre-treating roadways, but officials acknowledge that even with these efforts, travel will be hazardous. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm and to allow extra time if travel is essential. Schools and businesses are closely monitoring the forecast and may announce closures or delays as the storm approaches.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the WSAZ viewing area, which is likely to be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning as the event draws nearer. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring WSAZ News Channel 3, checking the WSAZ weather website (www.wsaz.com/weather), and following WSAZ's social media channels for the latest updates. This storm represents a classic example of late-winter unpredictability, and careful preparation will be key to staying safe. The forecast remains fluid, and updates will be provided frequently as the storm's track and intensity become clearer. The potential for damaging ice warrants taking this storm seriously, even after enjoying the brief respite of Saturday's beautiful weather.