Memorial Day in West Virginia usually brings mild to warm weather, so it’s honestly one of the best times to get outside. You’ll typically see daytime highs in the 70s or low 80s, and evenings cool off into the 50s and 60s.
Rain can happen, but it tends to show up in quick bursts instead of dragging on all day. Outdoor plans are usually doable if you stay flexible.
The state’s wild landscape creates some real differences you’ll want to know about. Mountain areas stay cooler and catch more rain, while valleys and low spots warm up faster and get a bit humid.
If you’re traveling between regions, you’ll notice a surprising range of weather over just a couple of hours’ drive.
Knowing what to expect helps you make the most of the long weekend. Whether you’re hiking, boating, or just wandering small towns, a little preparation goes a long way.
You’ll get to enjoy both spring warmth and the occasional cool breeze as the season shifts toward summer.
Typical Memorial Day Weather in West Virginia
Late May in West Virginia usually brings mild to warm days, but rain showers pop up now and then.
Daytime temperatures feel comfortable, there’s some humidity, and you’ll usually get a fair amount of sunshine. Still, spring can throw in a few unsettled weather surprises as it gives way to summer.
Average Temperatures in Late May
By the end of May, most of West Virginia is done with the chill of early spring. In Charleston, average highs are around 76°F, while Wheeling averages closer to 72°F.
At night, lows fall into the 50s, so evenings are cool but not freezing.
Higher elevations in the eastern part of the state stay a bit cooler, with daytime highs in the mid to upper 60s. If you’re heading into the mountains, bring a light jacket for mornings and evenings.
Compared to April, temperatures are steadier, and you really don’t have to worry about frost anymore.
Memorial Day weekend is one of the first reliably warm holiday periods here.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain is pretty common in late May, and Memorial Day weekend is no exception. Charleston averages about 3.8 inches of rain in May, while Wheeling gets closer to 3.3 inches.
You’ll see rain on roughly 11 to 12 days during the month, but most of those are just passing showers.
Storms roll in as quick afternoon showers or isolated thunderstorms. The lower valleys get more of these since warm, humid air builds up during the day.
Mountain areas see pop-up storms too, especially when spring weather patterns shift around.
If you’re planning outdoor stuff, just know rain showers are more frequent than in early spring but usually don’t last long. A light rain jacket or umbrella is a smart move.
Humidity and Sunshine Levels
Humidity starts to rise across West Virginia in late May, but it’s not as sticky as midsummer. In Charleston, you might get 3 muggy days in May; Wheeling averages about 2.
Most of those muggy days come late in the month when dew points climb above 65°F.
Sunshine is pretty reliable, with clear or partly clear skies on about half the days. Charleston sees clear skies roughly 50% of the time in May, while Wheeling is close to 48%.
Days are longer too. By late May, you get over 14 hours of daylight—plenty of time for outdoor plans, even if a shower interrupts things for a bit.
Regional Weather Variations Across West Virginia
West Virginia’s weather around Memorial Day can swing a lot depending on where you are. Elevation, valleys, and how close you are to the eastern ridges all play into temperatures, rainfall, and even fog.
Mountain Areas vs. Lowlands
In the higher mountains, like the Allegheny Highlands, Memorial Day often feels more like early spring than summer. Daytime highs usually stick to the 60s or low 70s°F, and nights can dip into the 40s.
You might see morning fog in valleys and a higher chance of passing showers.
The lowlands, including spots along the Ohio River, warm up sooner. Highs there often reach the upper 70s or low 80s°F, with milder nights in the 50s or low 60s.
Rainfall is still a thing, but storms are more scattered.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, remember—the mountains can feel 10–15 degrees cooler than the valleys on the same day. Packing layers really is the way to go.
Eastern Panhandle Climate Differences
The Eastern Panhandle, near Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry, gets weather more like the mid-Atlantic than the rest of the state. Memorial Day here usually brings warmer and drier conditions compared to central and northern regions.
Highs sit in the low to mid-80s°F, and nights stay in the 50s or low 60s.
This area sees less rainfall in late May than the higher elevations to the west. Storms still pop up, but they’re less frequent and usually don’t last long.
You’ll get more reliable sunshine here, making it a great spot for outdoor festivals and hikes during the holiday weekend.
Because it’s close to Washington, D.C., the Panhandle draws more visitors, so parks and trails get busier when the weather’s nice.
Weather in Popular Memorial Day Destinations
Charleston, the capital, often sees highs in the upper 70s°F with humid afternoons and a fair shot at afternoon showers.
Nights are mild, usually in the 50s. Outdoor events in town usually go on as planned, but it’s smart to keep an umbrella handy.
Wheeling, over by the Ohio border, gets similar temperatures but a bit more rain. Afternoon thunderstorms can show up quickly, especially along the river.
State parks like Blackwater Falls or Seneca Rocks stay cooler and wetter because of the elevation. Expect highs in the 60s or low 70s°F and prepare for damp trails.
These spots are beautiful for hiking, but the weather can change fast, so bring sturdy shoes and some rain gear.
Historical Weather Trends for Memorial Day Weekend
In West Virginia, Memorial Day weekend often brings a mix of warm spring air and early summer humidity. Some years feel more like midsummer, while others hang onto that unpredictable spring vibe.
Temperature Records and Extremes
Temperatures around Memorial Day usually land in the mid-70s to low 80s°F during the day, with nighttime lows in the 50s or 60s°F. That’s pretty comfortable for outdoor activities.
Still, temperature swings aren’t unusual.
Some years, highs have reached the upper 80s or even low 90s°F, especially in the southern valleys. On the flip side, higher elevations in the Allegheny Mountains sometimes struggle to get above the 60s°F when it’s cloudy or rainy.
Cold snaps don’t happen often, but they’re not impossible. Historical records show late-season cold fronts have dropped temperatures into the 40s°F overnight, especially in the mountains.
The difference between valley towns like Charleston and higher places like Snowshoe can be pretty dramatic. Where you spend the weekend really matters.
Notable Weather Events in Recent Years
Memorial Day weekends in West Virginia have brought both sunny stretches and disruptive weather. Rain shows up fairly often, with about 1 in 3 years seeing measurable precipitation during the holiday.
Thunderstorms are the main hazard. Strong cells can bring heavy downpours, gusty winds, and lightning, especially in the Ohio River Valley and central counties.
Severe storms have sometimes led to localized flooding, which can be a real problem in low-lying areas.
In the mountains, unsettled weather sometimes sticks around longer. Cloudy skies and scattered showers can keep things damp, but you’ll often see the sun break through again pretty quickly.
Dry weekends happen too, and when they do, temperatures often run hotter than average. Lakes and rivers get especially popular on those days.
Outdoor Activities and Weather Considerations
Late May in West Virginia usually brings mild mornings, warm afternoons, and cooler evenings. The weather is usually pleasant, but afternoon storms or valley fog can mess with outdoor plans.
Knowing when to head outside and how to prepare helps you make the most of the weekend.
Best Times of Day for Outdoor Plans
Morning hours are usually the most comfortable for hiking, biking, or fishing. Temperatures start in the low to mid-50s °F, which makes being active a lot easier.
By midday, temperatures climb into the 70s or low 80s °F in many areas. If you’re going to a parade or festival, bring water and dress light.
Evenings cool down quickly, especially in the mountains where lows can dip into the 50s °F. That’s perfect for campfires or stargazing, but pack a light jacket since it can feel chilly after dark.
Tips for Dealing with Rain or Storms
Rain showers are common in late spring, and short thunderstorms can pop up in the afternoon. Keep a small umbrella or light rain jacket handy if you’ll be outside for a while.
If you’re camping or at an outdoor event, pick higher ground to avoid soggy spots. Most state parks in West Virginia have shelters or covered picnic areas that make a good retreat.
When you hear thunder, get indoors or into a vehicle. Open fields, lakes, and ridgelines are not safe places during lightning.
Checking local forecasts each morning before you head out helps you adjust your plans if storms are likely.
Popular Memorial Day Events and Their Weather Impact
Carnivals, parades, and festivals pop up in towns like Bridgeport, Charleston, and Clarksburg. Warm afternoons are the norm, so find shade and drink water if you’re outside for a while.
Outdoor recreation areas like Tygart Lake State Park or the West Virginia Botanic Garden can get crowded. Trails might be muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes and skip steep paths if they’re slick.
In mountain towns like Davis, cooler temperatures and blooming rhododendrons make for scenic outings. Be ready for sudden fog or light rain, which can cut visibility on trails and roads.
Travel and Packing Advice for Memorial Day in West Virginia
Late May in West Virginia brings warm afternoons, cooler nights, and a decent chance of rain. You’ll want to prepare for big temperature swings and outdoor conditions that can go from paved roads to muddy trails.
What to Pack for Changing Weather
Daytime highs in late May often reach the low or mid-70s °F, while nights can dip into the 50s °F. Rain showers are common, especially in the mountains, so bring light, waterproof outerwear.
A compact rain jacket or poncho works well and won’t take up much space.
Pack clothes you can layer. A short-sleeve shirt with a light fleece or sweater keeps things flexible. If you’re camping, an insulated jacket is handy for chilly evenings.
Footwear really matters. Bring sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots that can handle wet ground. Sandals or casual shoes are fine for town, but they won’t cut it on trails.
Other useful items:
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Insect repellent for wooded spots
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Small first aid kit for scrapes or blisters
Road and Trail Conditions
West Virginia’s mountain roads twist and narrow as you climb. Rain can drop visibility fast and make things slick, so you’ll probably want to add a little extra time to your drive.
If you’re heading to state parks or small towns, check for construction or detours before you leave.
Trails by lakes, rivers, and through forests get muddy after those spring rains. Bring waterproof boots with decent grip, and honestly, skip the cotton socks—they just soak up water and never dry.
Trekking poles? They really help with balance, especially when the path gets steep.
Up higher, some trails still have soft, wet ground from old snowmelt. Stick to the marked paths so you don’t tear up the landscape.
If you plan to bike, get ready for a mix of paved stretches, gravel, and dirt.
Parking at popular parks fills up fast on holiday weekends. Arrive early if you want a spot close by, or you might end up walking a good distance from the overflow lots.
Comparing Memorial Day Weather to Other Seasons
Memorial Day weather in West Virginia sits right between spring and summer. You’ll get a mix of mild warmth, scattered rain, and sometimes a storm or two.
Compared to fall and winter, the holiday weekend just feels more predictable and way better for being outside.
Spring Versus Summer Conditions
Late May here usually means highs in the 70s or low 80s, with mornings cooling off into the 50s. Early spring doesn’t warm up as much—highs stay in the 50s or 60s, and nights can drop into the 30s or 40s.
Rain changes, too. By Memorial Day, you’re more likely to get a pop-up thunderstorm instead of the steady, lighter showers from March and April. About 40–50% of Memorial Days in this region get some rain, but it usually doesn’t last long.
Humidity starts creeping up as summer gets closer. Early spring feels crisp and dry, but late May can already feel muggy, especially down in the river valleys. That shift makes Memorial Day feel like the kickoff to summer, not really the tail end of spring.
You’ll notice warmer afternoons, greener scenery, and a bigger chance of short, strong storms compared to the cooler, quieter days in early spring.
How Memorial Day Weather Compares to Fall and Winter
When you put Memorial Day side by side with fall, the differences really stand out. September in West Virginia can bring similar temperatures, but fall days usually feel drier and less humid.
By late October, the highs drop into the 60s and 50s. That shift makes Memorial Day feel noticeably warmer, which honestly feels better for outdoor gatherings.
Winter, though, is a whole different story. In January, highs only reach the 30s, and folks deal with frequent snow and ice.
Memorial Day almost never dips below the 50s. Snow? You basically never see it that late in May, though I guess a rare cold snap could surprise you.
Wind comes into play, too. Winter storms whip up strong gusts and bring icy conditions, but Memorial Day winds feel lighter and usually just tag along with a passing shower or thunderstorm.
That kind of weather makes late May much more comfortable for travel or just hanging out.
If you compare it to those darker, colder months, Memorial Day gives you longer daylight, gentler evenings, and conditions that just invite barbecues, hikes, and river trips across West Virginia.