North Carolina – Wet pavement glistens under gray skies this morning, but colder air is already draining south. By later today, that harmless shine turns dangerous as freezing rain begins locking roads, trees, and power lines in ice.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, an Ice Storm Warning is in effect from this afternoon through Monday. Ice accumulations between one-half and three-quarters of an inch are expected across parts of the North Carolina Piedmont and Upstate South Carolina, including the Charlotte metro. Locally higher amounts are possible, especially near the South Carolina foothills.
Temperatures hover in the upper 30s early, then slide below freezing as precipitation increases. Rain transitions to freezing rain late today and continues through Sunday night. Ice builds steadily, weighing down branches and power lines while untreated roads turn slick fast.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly along I-85, I-77, I-26, and secondary roads. Flash freezing is a major concern as rain freezes on contact after temperatures drop, creating black ice even where roads appear wet. Travel could become treacherous or impassable at times, especially overnight into Monday morning.
Residents are urged to complete preparations early. Avoid unnecessary travel once icing begins. Charge phones, secure flashlights, and plan for extended power outages. Keep food, water, and medications ready. If travel is unavoidable, carry emergency supplies and expect delays.
Conditions improve slowly Monday afternoon as temperatures rise above freezing, though lingering ice and outages may persist. Very cold air follows, keeping roads icy at night into midweek.
Additional weather alerts remain possible as impacts continue.
Are roads already icing where you are? Share conditions from your part of the Carolinas.
Five-Day Outlook for Charlotte, North Carolina
• Sunday: Freezing rain, significant icing. High near 31.
• Monday: Rain early, then clearing. High near 38.
• Tuesday: Sunny and cold. High near 34.
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High near 38.
• Thursday: Partly cloudy. High near 34.
