Benwood, West Virginia Weather by Month

Benwood, a small city located along the banks of the Ohio River in West Virginia, offers a blend of rich history, scenic beauty, and community charm. Located in Marshall County, Benwood is situated in the northern panhandle of the state, approximately 50 miles southwest of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and 10 miles south of Wheeling, West Virginia. With a population of around 1,400 residents, Benwood maintains a close-knit community atmosphere while also providing access to urban amenities and cultural attractions in nearby cities. The city’s location along the Ohio River has historically been vital to its economy, with industries such as steel manufacturing and coal mining playing significant roles in its development. Today, Benwood boasts a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial establishments, and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Major landmarks in the area include the Benwood-McMechen Bridge, which spans the Ohio River, and the Benwood Mine Disaster Memorial, commemorating a tragic event in the city’s history. Benwood offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking to explore the beauty of West Virginia’s northern panhandle region and experience the warmth of its welcoming community.

Climate and Weather Overview

Benwood experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. Situated in the Appalachian foothills, the city’s location along the Ohio River influences its weather patterns, with occasional fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Summers in Benwood are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 20-30°C). Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit (around -4 to 2°C). Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and colorful foliage, making them ideal seasons for outdoor activities and exploring the region’s natural beauty. Overall, Benwood enjoys a diverse climate that offers something for everyone throughout the year.

Average Climate Data

Below is a table detailing the average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Benwood:

Weather by Month

January

January in Benwood brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, with average highs around 32°F (0°C). The city experiences moderate precipitation, often in the form of snow or freezing rain. While outdoor activities may be limited during snowy periods, residents and visitors can still enjoy indoor attractions, cultural events, and recreational activities.

Recommended Activities:

• Visiting the Wheeling Artisan Center for local crafts and artwork
• Exploring the history of the region at the Wheeling History Museum
• Enjoying winter sports at nearby Oglebay Resort & Conference Center

February

February maintains cold temperatures in Benwood, with average highs reaching 36°F (2°C). The city experiences moderate precipitation, with occasional snowfall and icy conditions. While outdoor activities may be limited during snowy periods, visitors can still explore indoor attractions, attend cultural events, and participate in winter sports and recreational activities.

Recommended Activities:

• Attending performances at the Capitol Theatre in Wheeling
• Exploring the exhibits at the Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum
• Skiing or snowboarding at Seven Springs Mountain Resort

March

March marks the transition to spring in Benwood, with temperatures warming up to around 45°F (7°C). The city experiences increasing sunshine and longer daylight hours, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Visitors can explore local parks and nature trails, go hiking or biking, or attend community events and festivals celebrating the season.

Recommended Activities:

• Hiking along the trails of Grand Vue Park
• Exploring the history of coal mining at the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum
• Attending the Wheeling Celtic Celebration

April

April brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers to Benwood, with average highs reaching 57°F (14°C). The city experiences moderate precipitation, but sunny days prevail, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can hike or bike along scenic trails, go birdwatching or wildlife viewing, or attend spring festivals and events celebrating the region’s natural beauty.

Recommended Activities:

• Birdwatching at Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold
• Exploring the trails of Oglebay Park
• Attending the Wheeling Feeling Chili Cookoff

May

May heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and longer days in Benwood, with average highs around 68°F (20°C). The city experiences increasing sunshine and minimal rainfall, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities and leisure pursuits. Visitors can explore local parks and nature reserves, go fishing or boating on area lakes, or attend outdoor concerts and performances in the park.

Recommended Activities:

• Fishing or kayaking on the Ohio River
• Exploring the trails of the Wheeling Heritage Trail System
• Attending the Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival

June

June brings warm and sunny weather to Benwood, with average highs reaching 77°F (25°C). The city experiences minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking or camping in nearby parks, go swimming or tubing on the Ohio River, or attend summer festivals and events celebrating the season.

Recommended Activities:

• Tubing or rafting on the Ohio River
• Hiking or camping in the Tomlinson Run State Park
• Attending the Wheeling Arts Fest

July

July is the hottest month in Benwood, with temperatures soaring to an average high of 81°F (27°C). The city experiences sunny days and warm evenings, perfect for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. Residents and visitors can cool off in local swimming holes or lakes, go hiking or mountain biking on nearby trails, or attend outdoor concerts and festivals celebrating the summer season.

Recommended Activities:

• Swimming at Wheeling Park Pool
• Mountain biking on the Wheeling Creek Trail
• Attending the Wheeling Sternwheel Festival

August

August maintains hot and sunny weather in Benwood, with average highs around 80°F (27°C). The city experiences minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine, providing residents and visitors with ideal conditions for outdoor activities and leisure pursuits. Visitors can explore local parks and nature reserves, go golfing or fishing, or attend outdoor concerts and events celebrating the summer season.

Recommended Activities:

• Golfing at the Crispin Golf Course
• Fishing at Grand Vue Park Lake
• Attending the Upper Ohio Valley Greek Festival

September

September brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage to Benwood, with average highs around 72°F (22°C). The city experiences decreasing humidity levels and clear skies, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Visitors can go hiking or biking on scenic trails, attend fall festivals and events, or explore local farms and orchards offering seasonal produce and activities.

Recommended Activities:

• Apple picking at Karr’s Fruit Stand
• Hiking along the trails of Wheeling Park
• Attending the Wheeling Wine and Jazz Festival

October

October marks the peak of fall foliage season in Benwood, with temperatures cooling down to around 60°F (15°C). The city experiences crisp mornings and mild afternoons, perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic drives through the countryside. Visitors can go leaf-peeping in nearby parks and forests, attend fall festivals celebrating the harvest season, or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking amidst the changing foliage and crisp autumn air.

Recommended Activities:

• Exploring the scenic beauty of Oglebay Resort & Conference Center
• Attending the Oglebayfest celebration
• Visiting local pumpkin patches and corn mazes

November

November brings cool temperatures and occasional frost to Benwood, with average highs reaching 49°F (9°C). The city experiences increasing cloud cover and occasional rainfall, but outdoor activities are still possible with proper attire and preparation. Visitors can explore local parks and nature reserves, go birdwatching or wildlife viewing, or attend holiday events and festivals celebrating the season.

Recommended Activities:

• Birdwatching at the Speidel Golf Club
• Exploring the exhibits at the West Virginia Independence Hall
• Attending the Wheeling Christmas Parade

December

December in Benwood brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, with average highs around 38°F (3°C). The city experiences shorter daylight hours and festive holiday decorations, creating a cozy atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. While outdoor activities may be limited during snowy periods, indoor attractions, including museums, theaters, and holiday markets, provide entertainment and recreation for all ages.

Recommended Activities:

• Ice skating at Wheeling Park
• Visiting the Suspension Bridge in Wheeling
• Attending holiday concerts and events in the area