Beaver is a small community located in Raleigh County, West Virginia, United States. Positioned in the southern part of the state, Beaver is located amidst the Appalachian Mountains, providing residents and visitors with breathtaking scenery and a serene environment. The town is located approximately 50 miles southeast of the state capital, Charleston. With a population of around 1,200 people, Beaver maintains a tight-knit community feel while still offering access to amenities and services. The town covers an area of approximately 2.7 square miles, encompassing residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and natural landscapes.
One of the most notable landmarks in Beaver is the Raleigh County Memorial Airport, serving as a gateway to the region and facilitating transportation for both passengers and cargo. Additionally, Beaver is home to the Raleigh County Campus of New River Community and Technical College, providing educational opportunities to local residents and contributing to the town’s academic and cultural landscape.
Geography and Climate
Beaver experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers, mild winters, and ample precipitation throughout the year. The town’s location in the Appalachian Mountains influences its weather patterns, with elevation playing a significant role in temperature variations.
Climate and Weather Overview
Average Climate Data
The following table presents average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Beaver, West Virginia:
Month | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
January | 34 | 2.8 | 12 |
February | 37 | 2.6 | 13 |
March | 45 | 3.4 | 14 |
April | 54 | 3.6 | 15 |
May | 64 | 4.2 | 16 |
June | 72 | 4.3 | 17 |
July | 76 | 4.9 | 17 |
August | 75 | 4.1 | 17 |
September | 68 | 3.3 | 15 |
October | 57 | 2.8 | 14 |
November | 47 | 2.9 | 13 |
December | 38 | 2.7 | 12 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Beaver typically brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average temperatures hover around 34°F, with precipitation averaging 2.8 inches. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, residents and visitors can still enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Winterplace Ski Resort. Indoor activities, such as visiting museums or attending community events, are popular during this time.
February
February sees similar weather patterns to January, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. The average temperature rises slightly to 37°F, with precipitation averaging 2.6 inches. Outdoor activities may still be limited, but opportunities for winter recreation abound. Residents can also take advantage of Valentine’s Day events and indoor entertainment options.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Beaver. Average temperatures increase to around 45°F, and precipitation levels rise to 3.4 inches. While snow is still possible early in the month, milder weather begins to prevail, allowing for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the surrounding mountains. As the snow melts, residents can also enjoy the budding flora and fauna in local parks and nature preserves.
April
April brings further warming to Beaver, with average temperatures reaching 54°F. Precipitation levels continue to increase, averaging 3.6 inches. Spring blooms adorn the town, and outdoor enthusiasts eagerly embrace the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Hiking trails become increasingly popular, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. April also marks the start of festival season, with community events celebrating local culture and traditions.
May
May brings even warmer temperatures to Beaver, with averages reaching 64°F. Precipitation levels rise to 4.2 inches, but sunny days become more frequent, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy picnics in local parks, fishing in nearby streams, and exploring the town’s charming downtown area. May also offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting in the region’s forests and wetlands.
June
June ushers in the beginning of summer in Beaver, with average temperatures climbing to 72°F. Precipitation levels remain consistent, averaging 4.3 inches. The longer days and warmer weather encourage outdoor recreation, with activities such as camping, boating, and swimming becoming popular choices. Residents can also take advantage of farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts, immersing themselves in the vibrant community atmosphere.
July
July brings peak summer conditions to Beaver, with average temperatures reaching 76°F. Precipitation levels peak at 4.9 inches, but sunny days remain abundant. Outdoor activities abound, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the region’s scenic wonders. Residents can cool off at local swimming holes or spend lazy afternoons picnicking in the shade. July also offers opportunities for stargazing and enjoying outdoor festivals and fairs.
August
August maintains the warmth of summer in Beaver, with average temperatures hovering around 75°F. Precipitation levels begin to taper off slightly, averaging 4.1 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts continue to embrace the season, enjoying activities such as kayaking, tubing, and zip-lining in the area’s natural playground. Residents can also indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences, savoring the bounty of local produce at restaurants and markets.
September
September brings the first hints of autumn to Beaver, with average temperatures cooling to 68°F. Precipitation levels decrease to 3.3 inches, and sunny days remain plentiful. Outdoor activities transition to fall favorites such as apple picking, leaf-peeping, and attending harvest festivals. Residents can also explore the region’s historic sites and scenic drives, immersing themselves in the beauty of the changing seasons.
October
October heralds the peak of fall foliage in Beaver, with average temperatures dropping to 57°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, averaging 2.8 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the mountains to witness the vibrant colors of autumn, hiking along trails lined with golden leaves. October also offers opportunities for pumpkin picking, haunted hayrides, and enjoying seasonal treats like apple cider and pumpkin pie.
November
November brings cooler temperatures to Beaver, with averages dipping to 47°F. Precipitation levels increase slightly to 2.9 inches, signaling the transition to winter. While outdoor activities may become less frequent, residents can still enjoy scenic drives through the countryside, exploring local craft fairs, and preparing for the holiday season ahead.
December
December marks the arrival of winter in Beaver, with average temperatures plummeting to 38°F. Precipitation levels remain steady at 2.7 inches, with snowfall becoming more common as the month progresses. Residents embrace the festive spirit, attending tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and seasonal performances. Outdoor activities may include ice skating, sledding, and winter hikes in nearby parks.