WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for several counties in West Virginia until 4:45 PM EDT.
The affected areas include Southwestern Nicholas, Southeastern Kanawha, Southwestern Clay, and Northern Fayette Counties.
At 4:08 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Montgomery, or 15 miles northwest of Fayetteville, moving northeast at 45 mph.
The primary hazards associated with this storm include 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail. These conditions are based on radar indications.
Residents in the affected areas should be prepared for hail damage to vehicles and wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.
Locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Fayetteville, Montgomery, Ansted, Cedar Grove, East Bank, Glasgow, Smithers, Gauley Bridge, Pratt, Burnwell, Powellton, Hawks Nest State Park, Handley, Dawes, Bickmore, Swiss, Indore, Sharon, Eskdale, and Bentree.
Motorists traveling on the West Virginia Turnpike between mile markers 66 and 83, as well as Route 19 between mile markers 18 and 35, should exercise caution.
Residents are advised to seek shelter immediately and stay indoors until the severe weather passes.