Winter Storm Warning Issued for WNC: Snow, Sleet, and Freezing Rain Expected

 

Snow is expected to begin late Friday afternoon, with light accumulations of up to 1 cm.
By Friday night, precipitation may transition to a wintry mix, including freezing rain, as temperatures hover near freezing.
Saturday will bring continued precipitation, with highs near 33°F (1°C) and lows dropping to 16°F (-9°C).

Watauga County

Snow will likely start Friday evening, with accumulations of 1-3 cm possible.
Sleet and freezing rain are expected Saturday morning, especially in higher elevations.
Highs will reach 28°F (-2°C), with lows around 17°F (-9°C).

Macon County

 

Snow accumulations of 2-4 cm are forecast for late Friday, transitioning to sleet and freezing rain overnight.
Saturday may bring a mix of rain, sleet, and snow, with highs near freezing.

 

Madison County 

Snow is expected to begin late Friday afternoon, with accumulations of 1 to 1.5 inches possible, especially in higher elevations.
By Friday night, precipitation may transition to sleet and freezing rain, increasing the risk of icy conditions.
Saturday will bring continued wintry precipitation, with highs near 30°F and lows dropping to 15°F.
Elevated areas such as the Appalachian Trail and Max Patch may see heavier snow accumulations and extended periods of freezing rain.
Travel conditions will be particularly hazardous on mountain roads and untreated surfaces.
 
 
 Henderson County

 

Light snow is anticipated Friday night, with 1-2 cm of accumulation.
Sleet and freezing rain will likely develop early Saturday morning.

 

 

Snowfall of 2-3 cm is expected late Friday, followed by sleet and freezing rain overnight into Saturday.
Hazardous conditions are anticipated, particularly on untreated roads.

 

 

Snow accumulations of up to 3 cm are forecast, with higher amounts in elevated areas like Maggie Valley.
Sleet and freezing rain will likely arrive by Saturday morning.

 

 

Snow will start late Friday, transitioning to a wintry mix overnight.
Accumulations of up to 1 cm of ice are possible by Saturday morning.

 

 

Heavier snow accumulations of 3-5 cm are expected in these higher-elevation areas.
Sleet and freezing rain may follow by Saturday morning, increasing the risk of icy conditions.

Timing of the Storm

 

Friday Afternoon (January 10): Snow will begin in areas west of Asheville and expand eastward into Buncombe County by evening.
Friday Night into Saturday Morning (January 11): A rain/snow line will move inland, transitioning snow to sleet and freezing rain in many areas, including Asheville and Hendersonville.
Saturday (January 11): Mixed precipitation will persist throughout the day, with snow lingering in higher elevations.

Potential Impacts
Travel:

Snow and ice will create dangerous travel conditions across Buncombe County and surrounding areas.
Bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads will be particularly hazardous.
Power Outages:

Ice buildup on trees and power lines could lead to localized outages.
Residents are encouraged to prepare by charging devices and gathering emergency supplies.
High Elevations:

Areas above 3,500 feet, including parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains, may see heavier snow accumulations and extended icy conditions.

Preparation Tips

 

Stay Informed: Regularly monitor weather updates from the National Weather Service and local outlets 
Emergency Supplies: Stock up on water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and necessary medications.
Avoid Travel: If possible, stay off roads during peak storm times. If travel is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions.
Protect Your Home: Insulate pipes to prevent freezing, and have backup heating options ready in case of power outages.

As the storm approaches, stay safe, stay informed, and prepare for potential disruptions. Western North Carolina communities,  should remain vigilant during this significant weather event.

 

 

WNCTimes

 

Image: WNCTimes