January 23, 2026 Governor Morrisey Urges West Virginians to Prepare for Significant Winter Storm ...

CHARLESTON, WV - Today, Governor Patrick Morrisey held a briefing to outline the state's preparations for a potentially significant winter storm expected to impact West Virginia this weekend.

"While the forecasts may change, we want to make sure we are prepared to work together to keep our people safe," said Governor Morrisey.

The Governor said state agencies, local emergency managers, public safety officials, utilities, FEMA, the National Weather Service, and the federal Department of Homeland Security have been in close communication all week. Additionally, non-governmental, voluntary, and community organizations met Friday to discuss readiness related to food banks, shelters, and crisis response plans.

As needed, the State Emergency Response Center will be activated and staffed to support coordination and focus the response on saving lives and protecting property.

Deputy Director of Emergency Management, Matthew Blackwood, provided detailed guidance for West Virginians to prepare for extreme cold, hazardous travel, and potential power disruptions. "This is about our response as a government, but also about the need for neighbors to look out for neighbors and plan ahead."

Prepare Now (Home & Vehicle):

• Review emergency supplies including food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
• Review backup plans for medical equipment that requires power.
• Check that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
• Refill vehicle fuel and ensure approved alternative heating sources have adequate fuel and are used safely.
• Bring pets indoors and include them in emergency planning.

As the Storm Approaches:

• Fully charge cell phones, medical devices, and backup power supplies.
• Continue checking trusted weather forecasts and official alerts.
• Adjust travel and work plans ahead of time, avoiding unnecessary travel once conditions worsen.
• Ensure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts (weather radios, mobile alerts, local media).
• Check on family members, neighbors, and anyone who may need assistance, especially older adults and those with medical needs.

During and After the Storm:

• Travel should be limited to essential trips only.
• Use emergency heat sources only if properly ventilated. Never operate grills, generators, or fuel-burning devices indoors or near open windows. Generators must be operated outside, at least 20 feet away from homes.
• Take frequent breaks when shoveling snow and avoid overexertion.
• Never approach downed power lines, and report outages to utility providers.

Utility Outage Contact Numbers:

• Potomac Edison: 1-800-686-0011
• AEP: 1-800-956-4237
• Mon Power: 1-800-686-0022

For those needing access to a warming center or food bank, call 211 or your county local emergency management offices. For emergencies, call 911.