A wintry mix of freezing rain and sleet is impacting parts of the North Carolina mountains early Tuesday morning, causing slick roads and icy surfaces, according to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg.
As of 5:45 a.m. EST, reports of icy decks and slippery roads have been received from Avery County, with temperatures below freezing across much of the region. The Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. for counties shaded in purple on the advisory map, including Asheville, Boone, and portions of the Blue Ridge.
The freezing rain and sleet are expected to continue through the early morning hours before temperatures slowly rise above freezing, ending the wintry mix by mid to late morning. While no significant snow accumulation is expected, ice glaze formation is possible on bridges, decks, and untreated roads, leading to hazardous driving conditions.
Forecasters note that temperatures are hovering near 32°F, which means small changes could make the difference between rain and freezing rain. Motorists are urged to avoid travel if possible until conditions improve later this morning.
After the precipitation exits and temperatures warm, dry weather will return by this afternoon, with highs reaching into the 40s and 50s. However, cold overnight lows could lead to refreezing on wet surfaces tonight, creating another round of slick spots by early Wednesday.
Residents are encouraged to use extreme caution, allow extra time for travel, and remain alert for black ice on shaded or elevated roadways.
