Western North Carolina – Dangerous winter weather conditions continue across the North Carolina High Country as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through early Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville–Spartanburg, the advisory applies to Avery, Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey counties and is scheduled to expire at 7 a.m. EST Saturday. Forecasters expect additional snowfall of 1 to 4 inches, with the greatest impacts occurring in higher elevations.
In addition to snow, very strong winds are a major concern. Wind gusts are forecast to reach up to 60 miles per hour, with gusts as high as 70 miles per hour along exposed ridgetops. These conditions are expected to produce blowing snow, sharply reducing visibility late tonight and into the early morning hours.
The National Weather Service warns that the combination of heavy snow accumulation and extreme winds could make many roads impassable, particularly along mountain routes such as U.S. Highway 221, U.S. Highway 19E, NC-80, and secondary high-elevation roads. Travel may become hazardous or impossible in some areas before daybreak.
Strong winds combined with heavy, wet snow increase the risk of tree damage and power outages, as snow-laden branches and power lines may fail under the added weight and wind stress. Emergency managers caution residents to be prepared for extended power disruptions, especially in remote and higher-elevation communities.
Cities and communities included in the advisory area include Banner Elk, Newland, Ingalls, Faust, and surrounding mountain towns. Conditions may vary significantly over short distances, with the most severe impacts concentrated near ridge crests and exposed slopes.
Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, slow down, and check road conditions by dialing 511 before departing. Those without essential travel are advised to remain off mountain roads until conditions improve later Saturday morning.
Residents should continue to monitor official weather updates and be prepared for rapidly changing and dangerous conditions overnight.
