I-40 – Weather Alert: dangerously low wind chills are expected overnight, increasing cold-exposure risks for travelers and residents.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, wind chill values are forecast to fall between 0 and 10 degrees below zero tonight into early Wednesday across the North Carolina mountains, including areas along Interstate 40, US-19E, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The coldest conditions are expected in Avery County and elevations above 3,500 feet in Mitchell and Yancey counties, where prolonged exposure could lead to frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, the agency said. Wind chills across the remainder of the mountain region are expected to remain in the single digits through Wednesday morning.
Forecasters also warned that extended periods of freezing temperatures may cause water pipes to rupture if preventive steps are not taken. Residents are urged to protect plumbing, limit time outdoors, and ensure pets and livestock have adequate shelter.
In addition to extreme cold, the National Weather Service cautioned about patchy black ice developing on untreated roads and bridges, particularly along mountain corridors such as I-26 near the Tennessee border and secondary highways in higher elevations. Drivers traveling overnight or during the Wednesday morning commute should allow extra time and remain alert for icy spots.
Looking ahead, the agency noted that snow potential is increasing for the upcoming weekend, though it remains too early for specific accumulation forecasts. Current outlooks indicate measurable chances for snowfall exceeding 2 inches and 4 inches across parts of the western Carolinas.
Students, early-morning workers, and commuters traveling mountain routes are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and road conditions before heading out.
