Thanksgiving in West Virginia really feels like a turning point—one minute it’s crisp autumn, and the next, you catch the first hints of winter. Most years, average daytime temperatures land somewhere in the mid-30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. The mountains run colder, while the valleys usually stay a bit milder.
This cool air and shorter daylight set up both cozy indoor gatherings and brisk outdoor fun.
Weather can change on a dime depending on your location. Head up to Canaan Valley or Snowshoe, and you might see early snow. Down in Charleston or Huntington, it’s just chilly—rarely frozen.
That variety means you really have to plan for travel and outdoor events around Thanksgiving.
If you know what to expect, you can prepare for safe travel, dress comfortably, and make the most of the holiday. Whether you’re off to a family dinner, a hike, or just a weekend away, understanding the typical Thanksgiving weather in West Virginia definitely gives you an edge.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in West Virginia
Late November in West Virginia marks the real shift from fall into early winter. You’ll get cooler days, a higher chance of rain showers, and sometimes even a light snow, especially in the mountains.
Daylight is shorter, and those sunsets sneak up fast.
Average Temperatures in Late November
By Thanksgiving, daytime highs in lower elevations like Charleston usually sit between 48°F and 55°F. Up north and in the hills around Wheeling, highs drop closer to 45°F to 50°F.
Nighttime lows often hit the low 30s, so frost becomes pretty common by morning. In the mountains, it can dip into the upper 20s and feel much colder than down in the valleys.
Plan on wearing layers. A sunny afternoon might feel pleasant, but the temperature drops quickly once the sun disappears.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain showers stick around in late November. On average, cities like Charleston and Wheeling get 7 to 8 days of measurable precipitation for the month.
Rainfall totals average about 2.5 to 2.8 inches in November. Showers are usually light to moderate, though an occasional cold front can bring steadier rain.
Since the air’s cooler, you won’t see many heavy summer downpours. Still, expect damp ground and lots of wet leaves, so if you’re traveling, watch for slick spots.
Snowfall Likelihood and Frost
Snow starts to become a factor as November rolls on. In Charleston, average snowfall for the month is just 0.2 inches, while Wheeling gets about 0.4 inches.
Mountain towns in the Alleghenies sometimes get the first real snow accumulation of the season. Even if snow skips your area, morning frost is almost guaranteed statewide.
You might get a dusting or a light snow shower near Thanksgiving, but big storms usually wait until December.
Daylight Hours and Sunset Times
By late November, daylight is in short supply across West Virginia. You get about 10 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:15 AM and sunset near 5:00 PM.
That early sunset catches a lot of travelers off guard, especially if you’re driving through rural or mountain roads. It’s a good idea to plan outdoor activities or travel earlier in the day.
The shorter days mean evenings cool off fast, so keep a jacket handy when you’re out for holiday events.
Regional Variations Across the State
Thanksgiving weather in West Virginia really depends on where you land. Lower valleys and cities feel milder, but the higher ridges bring colder air, more wind, and a better shot at snow.
Weather in Charleston and Urban Areas
Charleston and other cities along the Kanawha Valley usually see daytime highs in the upper 40s to low 50s°F and nighttime lows in the low to mid-30s°F. Mornings are frosty, but snow doesn’t show up as often here as it does in the mountains.
Rain is more common than snow at this time. Charleston averages about 3–4 inches of precipitation in November, and most of it falls as rain. Sometimes you’ll get a dusting of snow, but it rarely sticks around for more than a day.
Urban areas tend to feel a bit warmer since pavement and buildings trap heat. That makes outdoor Thanksgiving events or short city hikes more comfortable than up in the hills.
Allegheny Mountains Climate Differences
The Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia offer a much colder Thanksgiving. Elevations above 2,500 feet usually run 10–15°F colder than Charleston, with highs in the 30s and lows in the 20s.
Snow is more likely here, too. Mountain towns like Snowshoe often see several inches of snow by late November, and icy roads can be a real issue. The higher ridges hold onto clouds longer, so it stays gray and damp.
Orographic lifting means the Alleghenies get more precipitation than the valleys. You can expect wetter conditions overall, whether that’s rain, sleet, or snow. If you’re traveling this way, get ready for winter driving and bundle up for outdoor fun.
Weather Trends Leading Up to Thanksgiving
November in West Virginia brings a real shift in temperature and daylight. You’ll notice cooler mornings, shorter days, and the first winter weather systems rolling in.
Early November Climate Overview
In early November, daytime highs usually land in the 50s°F to low 60s°F across most of the state. Higher elevations, like the Alleghenies, stay cooler, often in the 40s°F.
Nights are chilly, dropping into the 30s°F, and frost pops up in the valleys. Rainfall is still frequent, averaging 2 to 3 inches for the month.
You’ll see more light showers than big storms, but the occasional cold front can bring a quick downpour. Snow is rare at lower elevations this early, though some mountain towns might catch the first light snowfalls.
The air feels crisp, and humidity drops compared to October. Early November is that in-between time: autumn leaves are fading, and bare trees start to take over. You might spot a little late color in sheltered valleys, but the higher ridges are mostly bare.
Transition from Autumn to Winter
By mid to late November, temperatures drop even more. Highs usually land in the 40s°F to low 50s°F, while lows fall into the 20s°F to low 30s°F.
In the mountains, freezing weather becomes pretty common, and snow showers can happen a few times before Thanksgiving.
Cold fronts crossing the Ohio Valley sometimes bring mixed precipitation. A day might start as rain in the lowlands and turn to snow in the hills. That’s pretty typical as fall gives way to winter in West Virginia.
Travelers should watch for more unpredictable weather now. Mountain roads can get slick from early snow or overnight frost, while valleys mostly stay wet. This mix of conditions really shows how the state’s varied landscape affects the change from fall to winter.
Thanksgiving Week Travel and Outdoor Planning
Thanksgiving week in West Virginia can be all over the place weather-wise. Mild afternoons often give way to chilly nights. Rain showers pop up, and colder air sometimes brings slick roads or light snow in the higher spots.
If you prepare ahead, you’ll stay safe on the road and stay comfortable outside.
Driving Conditions and Safety
Expect both wet and dry days if you’re traveling Thanksgiving week. Early in the week, it’s often warmer with rain showers, then colder air usually rolls in by the weekend.
This swing can create changing road conditions, especially in the mountains where temperatures drop fast.
Key considerations:
- Rain: Wet pavement means less traction and longer stopping distances.
- Cold mornings: Keep an eye out for frost or black ice on bridges and shaded roads.
- Snow flurries: More likely up high later in the week.
Try to travel during daylight if you can. Visibility is better, and it’s a little warmer. If possible, skip peak travel times—especially the afternoon before Thanksgiving, when traffic can get pretty wild.
Make sure your vehicle’s ready for quick weather changes. Check your tires, wipers, and fluids. Toss a small emergency kit in the trunk—a flashlight, blanket, and some water just in case.
Recommended Clothing and Gear
You’ll want layers that work for both mild and cold weather. Afternoon highs might only require a light jacket, but evenings can call for heavier coats.
Rain showers are common, so waterproof outerwear and shoes make a big difference.
Suggested packing list:
- Water-resistant jacket or coat
- Warm base layers (sweaters, fleece)
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Rain gear like umbrellas or ponchos
- Gloves and hats for chilly mornings and nights
If you’re hiking or heading to state parks, bring sturdy footwear for wet ground. Mountain conditions can flip fast, so dress in layers you can adjust.
A small backpack with extra socks, snacks, and water keeps you ready for surprises. It’s an easy way to stay comfortable whether you’re on the road, in town, or outdoors.
Comparing Thanksgiving Weather to Other Seasons
Thanksgiving in West Virginia usually means cool days, chilly nights, and a mix of rain or light snow—depending on where you are. To really get a feel for it, it helps to see how late November stacks up against spring, summer, and the colder winter ahead.
Spring Versus Autumn Conditions
Spring in West Virginia tends to be wetter than late fall. From March through May, rain showers are frequent, and temperatures climb from freezing mornings up into the 50s and even 70s °F.
Rivers and forests burst with new growth, and the air feels damp even when it’s warm.
By late November, things are colder and a bit drier. Average highs hover in the mid-40s °F, with lows close to freezing. You’ll still see rain, but it’s usually not as frequent as in April or May.
You’ll also notice fewer daylight hours in November compared to spring. That shorter window of sun makes Thanksgiving week feel cooler, even if the thermometer says otherwise.
Key difference:
- Spring: wetter, longer days, warming up.
- Late November: colder, short days, chance of early snow.
Summer Versus Late November
Summer in West Virginia brings long, humid days. From June to August, highs often hit the mid-80s °F, and valleys can feel even hotter with all that humidity.
Thunderstorms pop up a lot, especially in July, and evenings stay fairly mild.
Late November, though, is a whole different story. Highs average in the 40s °F, and mountain towns can dip into the 30s. Nights often fall below freezing, which feels like a shock compared to summer’s warm evenings.
Humidity drops off too. Summer’s thick air can make hiking or driving feel sticky, but Thanksgiving week usually feels crisp and dry. Outdoor stuff like walking trails or catching a parade is easier without July’s muggy air.
Comparison table:
| Season | Typical Highs | Typical Lows | Precipitation Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 82–87°F | 60–65°F | Thunderstorms, heavy rain |
| Late Nov | 40–50°F | 30–35°F | Rain or light snow |
Winter Onset After Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving really marks the edge of winter in West Virginia. By December, you’ll notice temperatures dropping into the 20s at night, and most days barely reach 40°F.
Snow starts showing up pretty regularly, especially in the Allegheny Mountains. Some seasons, those mountains collect several feet of snow.
Late November brings the first real hints of this change. It’s not quite as cold as January, but Thanksgiving week often means icy mornings, frost on the roads, and the occasional snow shower.
Travelers should watch out for slick roads, especially if you’re heading into higher elevations.
You’ll still get a few mild afternoons around Thanksgiving, unlike the deep winter months. Sometimes, a sunny day will climb into the 50s°F, but cold fronts can sneak in fast.
A quick front can flip rain into snow in no time, and suddenly, you’re right at the start of West Virginia’s long winter.
Long-Term Climate Patterns and Best Time to Visit
West Virginia’s mountains really shake up the weather, so temperature and precipitation jump around depending on elevation. Late fall means cool, damp days, and winter tends to hit the ridges before it reaches the valleys.
If you know these patterns, it’s a lot easier to plan your trip or any outdoor adventures.
Historical Weather Data for November
November in West Virginia usually feels like the start of winter, especially up in the Allegheny Mountains. Average daytime highs sit in the low 40s°F if you’re higher up, but if you’re down in the valleys, you might get mid 50s°F.
At night, lows often drop into the 30s°F, and frost is a regular visitor.
By mid to late November, snow can show up, especially in the eastern highlands. Tucker and Pocahontas Counties sometimes get those early snow showers, while places like Charleston and Huntington usually stick with rain until December.
Rainfall averages about 3 to 4 inches statewide in November. Most of the time, it’s a light, steady rain—not dramatic downpours.
This mix of chilly rain and the occasional snow can slow travel, especially on those winding mountain roads.
Best Time to Visit West Virginia
If you love crisp air and fall scenery, early November is a great time to go. The last bits of autumn color hang on in the valleys, and the air stays cool but still comfortable enough for hiking.
By late November, the weather gets colder and wetter. That can make outdoor adventures a bit trickier.
January and February usually bring steady snow to ski spots like Snowshoe Mountain. You’ll find the most reliable snowpack in the higher elevations during these months.
If you’d rather have milder weather, late spring and early fall feel much more pleasant. May and October usually mean moderate temperatures, lower humidity, and clear views from the mountain trails.
A lot of folks pick these months for scenic drives or to catch outdoor festivals.