A powerful winter storm is impacting much of the southeastern United States, bringing heavy snow, blizzard conditions, and dangerous travel from northern Georgia through Virginia, according to the National Weather Service.
Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect across large portions of Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and parts of Kentucky and West Virginia. Snow accumulations range from 2 to 12 inches, with localized totals exceeding one foot in parts of eastern North Carolina and the coastal plain. Winds are gusting between 35 and 70 mph, producing widespread blowing snow and whiteout conditions.
The National Weather Service reports life-threatening travel conditions, especially in eastern North Carolina and southeast Virginia, where visibility may drop below one-quarter mile for extended periods. Coastal and Outer Banks communities face near-blizzard conditions, with strong winds capable of causing tree damage and scattered power outages.
In Georgia and South Carolina, snow totals of 3 to 9 inches are expected across the Piedmont, foothills, and portions of the coastal plain. Wind chills across northern Georgia and the Carolinas have fallen into the single digits and below zero, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
Across Virginia, snow totals vary from 3 to 10 inches, with higher amounts near the coast and northeastern counties. The combination of heavy snow and wind is expected to make many secondary roads impassable.
Officials strongly urge residents to delay all non-essential travel. Emergency managers warn that stranded motorists may face prolonged exposure to extreme cold if vehicles become disabled. Road condition updates are available via 511 services in affected states.
Warnings remain in effect through Sunday afternoon or evening, depending on location, with hazardous conditions likely to persist even after snowfall tapers due to drifting snow and icy roads.
