If you’re planning a trip to West Virginia, it can be difficult to decide when would be the best time of year to go.
The options are seemingly endless, and each season has its own unique strengths – warm summers, brisk fall weather, snowy winters…the possibilities really do seem endless.
But while knowing which season offers the activities or attractions that will make your stay most enjoyable is important when deciding on a date for your West Virginia adventure, equally as important is understanding which seasons could offer more extreme temperatures than others – or worse yet – leave you stranded without access to much-needed amenities.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what times may be better avoided when choosing your itinerary in order to determine whether visiting West Virginia is right for you.
The Worst Time To Visit West Virginia
Visiting West Virginia can be a great way to experience the outdoors, but many don’t think of it as a vacation spot.
The winter months of December to February can be considered as the worst time to visit West Virginia, as temperatures tend to drop below freezing and roads can become icy.
Additionally, West Virginia is prone to natural disasters such as flooding or devastating storms which could potentially ruin a carefully planned trip.
How does the weather affect travel in West Virginia?
The weather in West Virginia can be unpredictable and often times harsh, making it important to pay attention to the forecast before venturing out.
Heavy rains or snowfall could cause roads and trails to become impassible and make it impossible for travelers to reach their destination.
It’s also important to consider the length of your trip when considering the weather. Longer visits might require additional supplies if you get stranded, such as enough food and warm clothing to last until rescue services arrive.
What are some of the dangers of winter travel in West Virginia?
Visiting West Virginia during the colder winter months can be risky due to extreme temperatures and hazardous conditions.
⚠️ Winter weather in West Virginia can be extremely dangerous. Icy roads and low visibility due to snowfall can make driving conditions treacherous.
⚠️ Heavy snowfall can also cause power outages and leave you stranded without heat or the ability to cook.
⚠️ Additionally, hypothermia is a real danger of cold weather exposure, so travelers should always be prepared with proper clothing and supplies in case they get stuck in the elements.
⚠️ Natural disasters, such as flooding or landslides can occur during the winter months in West Virginia, so always check for any warnings before taking a trip.
How do I prepare for worst winter weather in West Virginia?
Below are some tips for how to stay safe during winter months in West Virginia:
❖ Prepare for the extreme cold by layering your clothing: Wear thermal underwear, a wool sweater or fleece jacket, and a waterproof/windproof outer layer.
❖ Make sure you have winter boots with appropriate insulation and traction if you plan on venturing outdoors.
❖ Bring along a spare set of warm clothes in case of emergency.
❖ Bring a first-aid kit that includes supplies to deal with extreme cold or hypothermia
❖ Make sure your car is winter ready: check the oil, tires, and brakes; pack blankets, food, and water in case you get stranded.
❖ Use caution when driving on icy roads, as well as when walking in icy conditions.
❖ Have an emergency plan in place in case of disaster or power outage.