ENVIRONMENT

States Brace As Major Winter Storm Approaches Weekend

PUBLISHED Jan 22, 2026, 9:52 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 7

Center 100%

Sources: 7

Charleston, W.Va. — Governors and state agencies mobilized ahead of a major winter storm expected this weekend, issuing preparedness and emergency declarations and coordinating utilities and transportation crews. The National Weather Service posted watches and warnings; forecasts show 9–12 inches of snow and up to 0.2 inches of ice in some areas for Jan. 24–26. West Virginia activated its Emergency Management Division and positioned staff statewide; Virginia pre-treated roadways, readied 3,300 pieces of equipment and mixed brine from a 30,000‑ton salt dome. Officials and emergency managers urged limited travel and monitoring of forecasts. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

National Weather Service issues winter storm watches and warnings for the region.
Governor Morrisey declares a State of Preparedness for all 55 West Virginia counties (Wednesday).
Virginia Governor declares a state of emergency; VDOT begins pre-treating and staging resources.
West Virginia officials hold press briefings and urge residents to limit nonessential travel (Friday).
Governor Morrisey declares a State of Emergency as forecasts project Jan. 24–26 storm with significant snow and ice.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7

Who Benefited

State and local emergency management agencies, transportation departments, and utility companies benefited by mobilizing resources early and coordinating staffing, equipment, and pre-treatment efforts to reduce damage and speed post-storm recovery.

Who Impacted

Residents, commuters, and small businesses faced elevated risks from travel disruptions, potential prolonged power outages, and access limitations during the storm and immediate recovery period.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Residents, commuters, and small businesses faced elevated risks from travel disruptions, potential prolonged power outages, and access limitations during the storm and immediate recovery period.