Severe thunderstorms hit southern West Virginia, prompting warnings and extended rain forecast

The National Weather Service issued two Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for southern and central West Virginia. Storms capable of 60 mph wind gusts, nickel‑size hail, heavy rain and frequent lightning were reported near Hanover and along a line from Madison to Van. The warnings cover counties including McDowell, Boone, Kanawha, Raleigh, and parts of the West Virginia Turnpike. Residents were urged to stay indoors, avoid flooded roads and take shelter in interior rooms.

A weather outlook expects cooler temperatures in the region with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s. Forecasters predict additional rain throughout the week, with the strongest chance on Tuesday and Friday. Up to three inches of rain could fall across the Southern Coalfields, potentially alleviating the current drought and moving the area out of its drought category. A marginal risk of severe weather remains east in Virginia, and isolated strong storms are possible in the Greenbrier Valley on Monday.