West Virginia Weather by Month
West Virginia is located in the Appalachian region of the United States, bordered by Pennsylvania to the north, Maryland and Virginia to the east, Kentucky to the southwest, and Ohio to the northwest. It became the 35th state on June 20, 1863, during the Civil War, after separating from Virginia. Known for its mountainous terrain, it is nicknamed the “Mountain State.” Major cities include Charleston (the capital and largest city), Huntington, Morgantown, Parkersburg, and Wheeling. Key landmarks include the New River Gorge Bridge, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the Greenbrier resort, and the Monongahela National Forest. The state’s economy traditionally relied on coal mining, but has diversified into sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing.
Weather Overview:
West Virginia experiences a humid subtropical climate in the lower elevations and a humid continental climate in the higher elevations. The state has four distinct seasons with moderate temperatures and considerable precipitation throughout the year.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 34.4 | 2.90 |
| February | 38.1 | 2.75 |
| March | 46.8 | 3.72 |
| April | 57.0 | 3.45 |
| May | 65.1 | 4.01 |
| June | 73.1 | 4.09 |
| July | 76.5 | 4.50 |
| August | 75.1 | 3.68 |
| September | 68.4 | 3.52 |
| October | 57.4 | 2.87 |
| November | 46.8 | 3.31 |
| December | 37.2 | 3.23 |
January
January in West Virginia brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, especially in the mountainous regions. Average temperatures range from the low 20s to the mid-30s°F (-6 to 1°C) in most areas, with colder conditions in the higher elevations. Snow is common throughout the month, particularly in the Allegheny Mountains and other upland areas, making January an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit ski resorts such as Snowshoe Mountain and Canaan Valley Resort. However, for those seeking indoor activities, West Virginia offers plenty of options, including exploring historical sites like Harpers Ferry, touring museums in Charleston, or enjoying cozy cabins in the woods. Overall, January is a quieter time for tourism in West Virginia, making it ideal for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and want to experience the state’s winter charm.
February
February continues the cold temperatures of winter in West Virginia, but signs of spring begin to emerge towards the end of the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-20s to the mid-40s°F (-4 to 7°C) in most areas, with slightly milder conditions in the lower elevations. Snowfall tends to decrease as the month progresses, although winter sports enthusiasts can still enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at resorts like Snowshoe Mountain and Winterplace. February is also a great time for indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending cultural events, and enjoying the cozy atmosphere of West Virginia’s mountain lodges. Additionally, February offers opportunities for romantic getaways at charming bed and breakfasts or secluded cabins in the woods, providing a peaceful retreat for couples seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
March
March marks the transition from winter to spring in West Virginia, with fluctuating temperatures and the potential for both cold snaps and mild days. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s to the mid-50s°F (about 2 to 13°C) in most areas, although higher elevations and inland regions may experience cooler conditions. Snowfall becomes less frequent, especially in the lower elevations, although outdoor enthusiasts can still enjoy late-season skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Snowshoe Mountain. March is an ideal time for hiking, biking, and exploring West Virginia’s scenic landscapes as nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber. Popular destinations such as New River Gorge National Park and Seneca Rocks offer stunning vistas, hiking trails, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Additionally, March is a great time for attending maple syrup festivals, where travelers can learn about the tradition of maple sugaring and sample fresh maple syrup and maple products.
April
April brings warmer temperatures and blooming landscapes to West Virginia, making it one of the best times to visit the state. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s°F (about 7 to 18°C) in most areas, although higher elevations may experience cooler conditions. Spring flowers begin to bloom, trees start to leaf out, and wildlife becomes more active, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration. April is an excellent time for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in West Virginia’s national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. The Appalachian Trail offers scenic vistas and opportunities to spot wildflowers, while rivers and streams provide excellent fishing for trout and other species. Additionally, April is a popular time for attending outdoor festivals and events, including fairs, craft shows, and Earth Day celebrations, where travelers can experience West Virginia’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
May
May is a delightful time to visit West Virginia, with warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s°F (about 13 to 24°C) in most areas, although higher elevations may experience slightly cooler temperatures. Spring foliage is in full bloom, creating a tapestry of vibrant colors across the state, while wildlife becomes more active, providing opportunities for birdwatching and photography. May is an excellent time for hiking, camping, and exploring West Virginia’s scenic landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers. New River Gorge National Park and Monongahela National Forest offer a variety of trails and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, while the Greenbrier River Trail provides scenic views of the countryside and opportunities for biking and horseback riding. Additionally, May is a popular time for attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, including bluegrass festivals, craft beer tastings, and Memorial Day celebrations, where travelers can experience West Virginia’s rich cultural heritage and musical traditions.
June
June brings the onset of summer in West Virginia, with warm temperatures, sunny skies, and longer daylight hours providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s°F (about 18 to 29°C) in most areas, although higher elevations may experience slightly cooler temperatures. June is an excellent time for hiking, camping, and water sports in West Virginia’s national parks, forests, and rivers. Summersville Lake and Cheat Lake offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the Gauley River and New River provide world-class whitewater rafting experiences. June is also a popular time for attending outdoor festivals and events, including music festivals, food fairs, and heritage celebrations, where travelers can experience West Virginia’s diverse culture and community spirit. Overall, June offers the perfect combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events, making it an ideal time to visit the Mountain State.
July
July is the peak of summer in West Virginia, with hot temperatures and sunny skies prevailing across the state. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s°F (about 18 to 29°C) in most areas, although higher elevations may experience slightly cooler temperatures. July is an ideal time for outdoor recreation and exploration in West Virginia’s national parks, forests, and rivers. The New River Gorge offers world-class rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities, while the Monongahela National Forest provides scenic trails and camping areas for outdoor enthusiasts. Summersville Lake and Cheat Lake are popular destinations for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the Greenbrier River Trail offers scenic views of the countryside and opportunities for biking and horseback riding. July is also a popular time for attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, including Fourth of July celebrations, music festivals, and county fairs, where travelers can experience West Virginia’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. Overall, July offers the perfect combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events, making it an ideal time to visit the Mountain State.
August
August continues the hot and sunny conditions of summer in West Virginia, making it one of the best times to visit the state for outdoor activities and exploration. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s°F (about 18 to 29°C) in most areas, although higher elevations may experience slightly cooler temperatures. August is an ideal time for hiking, camping, and water sports in West Virginia’s national parks, forests, and rivers. The New River Gorge offers world-class rock climbing, hiking, and whitewater rafting opportunities, while the Monongahela National Forest provides scenic trails and camping areas for outdoor enthusiasts. Summersville Lake and Cheat Lake are popular destinations for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the Greenbrier River Trail offers scenic views of the countryside and opportunities for biking and horseback riding. August is also a popular time for attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, including music festivals, food fairs, and county fairs, where travelers can experience West Virginia’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. Overall, August offers the perfect combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events, making it an ideal time to visit the Mountain State.
September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in West Virginia, with gradually cooling temperatures and the arrival of fall foliage in some areas. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s°F (about 13 to 24°C) in most areas, although higher elevations and inland regions may experience cooler conditions. September is an excellent time for hiking, camping, and leaf-peeping in West Virginia’s national parks, forests, and scenic areas. The Appalachian Trail offers stunning vistas and opportunities to spot fall foliage, while Seneca Rocks and Dolly Sods provide scenic views and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, September is a popular time for attending fall festivals and events, including apple festivals, harvest festivals, and county fairs, where travelers can experience West Virginia’s rich agricultural heritage and community spirit. Overall, September offers the perfect combination of mild weather, fall foliage, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to visit the Mountain State.
October
October is synonymous with fall foliage in West Virginia, as the leaves change colors and the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s°F (about 7 to 18°C) in most areas, although higher elevations and inland regions may experience cooler temperatures. Cool, crisp days and clear skies make October perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, scenic drives, and photography. The New River Gorge and Blackwater Falls State Park offer some of the best opportunities for leaf-peeping, with scenic overlooks and hiking trails providing breathtaking views of the fall foliage. October is also a popular time for visiting West Virginia’s pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple orchards, where travelers can enjoy seasonal activities and taste the flavors of autumn. Overall, October offers the perfect combination of mild weather, fall foliage, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to visit the Mountain State.
November
November marks the transition to winter in West Virginia, with cooling temperatures and occasional frost towards the end of the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s to the mid-50s°F (about 2 to 13°C) in most areas, although higher elevations and inland regions may experience cooler conditions. While early November may still feel like fall, with lingering foliage and mild weather, colder conditions become more prevalent as the month progresses. November is a time of transition, with outdoor activities giving way to indoor pursuits such as holiday shopping and cultural events. Travelers visiting West Virginia in November can experience the changing seasons, from the last traces of fall to the first hints of winter, making it an ideal time for cozy getaways and exploring indoor attractions.
December
December brings winter weather to West Virginia, with cold temperatures and the potential for occasional snowfall across the state. Average temperatures range from the low 20s to the mid-40s°F (-6 to 7°C) in most areas, although higher elevations and inland regions may experience colder temperatures. While snow is relatively rare in some parts of the state, it can occur, especially in the higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains. December also brings festive holiday celebrations and events, offering opportunities to experience the magic of the season. Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding are popular, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. December can be a cozy and enchanting time to visit West Virginia, with the promise of winter festivities and seasonal cheer.
