Charlotte, North Carolina – A widespread and potentially crippling ice storm is expected to impact a large portion of the southern Appalachians and Piedmont beginning Saturday afternoon, creating dangerous travel conditions and a high risk of long-lasting power outages through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, an Ice Storm Warning is in effect from 1 p.m. Saturday until 1 p.m. Monday across northeast Georgia, western and central North Carolina, and Upstate South Carolina. Ice accumulations between one-quarter inch and one inch are expected, with additional sleet and snow accumulations up to two inches in many areas. Wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph could significantly worsen damage by bringing down ice-laden trees and power lines.
Statewide impacts will be severe. Roads across the region are expected to become treacherous or impassable, especially bridges, overpasses, and mountain routes. Interstate corridors including I-40, I-77, I-85, I-26, and I-75 could see prolonged closures or extremely hazardous conditions. Officials warn that widespread power outages are likely and could last for several days in some mountain and foothill communities.
In the Charlotte metro area, including Mecklenburg, Gaston, Cabarrus, Union, and Lincoln counties, residents should prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions late Saturday and worsening impacts Sunday. In western North Carolina, including Asheville, Waynesville, Boone-area foothills, and the Blue Ridge Escarpment, ice accumulation is expected to increase rapidly Saturday night into Sunday morning. North Georgia communities such as Clayton, Toccoa, Dahlonega, and Blue Ridge may see some of the earliest and heaviest icing.
Emergency officials strongly discourage all non-essential travel. Residents are urged to complete preparations before Saturday afternoon, charge electronic devices, protect exposed pipes, and prepare for extended power outages. Travel should be restricted to emergencies only once icing begins.
The Ice Storm Warning remains in effect through Monday afternoon, with hazardous conditions expected to significantly impact the Monday morning commute. Additional advisories or extensions are possible as the storm evolves, and residents should continue monitoring local alerts and road conditions via 511.
