Snow and ice could hit NC mountains, leaving hazardous roads. Here’s the forecast
A blast of wintry weather could bring slick roads to Western North Carolina this week, officials say.
Ice and snow are possible early Tuesday in parts of the mountains, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters have issued a winter weather advisory for 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. in Avery County and nearby areas with high elevations. Another advisory is in effect from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. in parts of northwestern North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.
Up to 4 inches of snow could blanket Boone and areas to the north, according to the service.
To the southwest, freezing rain and sleet could create a “light glaze of ice” as a system moves into the Avery County mountains, according to the weather service. Snow is also possible, with 1 to 2 inches of accumulation expected in the area roughly 70 miles northeast of Asheville, forecasters say.
“A trailing cold front will cross the region during the day Tuesday, likely permitting any lingering precipitation to transition back to snow showers,” the National Weather Service says.
The road conditions could be dangerous and impact commuters, forecasters say.
Drivers are urged to avoid roads when winter weather hits, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation. People who need to be behind the wheel should drive slowly and leave space for other cars, the agency says.
Drier air is expected to come overnight, and skies could be clear early Wednesday, according to the weather service.
The expected weather comes after several parts of the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway were shut down Sunday “due to snow, ice and downed trees,” the National Park Service posted on Facebook. A map shows portions of the scenic route closed Monday morning.
This story was originally published January 6, 2020 at 1:52 PM.
