Greenville, South Carolina – Heavy snow will begin stacking up across the highest peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains at midnight, with some locations in Swain County facing a foot or more before the system winds down late Monday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from midnight through midnight Monday night for elevations above 3,500 feet in Swain County. Snow totals between 3 and 7 inches are expected in the higher terrain, with a foot or more possible on the highest Smokies peaks. Valleys beneath the mountains, including areas near Bryson City, could see up to 1 inch. Wind gusts between 35 and 45 mph may produce blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility Sunday night and Monday.
Roads through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including U.S. 441 over Newfound Gap, may become snow covered and difficult to navigate. Higher elevation routes could become impassable at times, especially during heavier bursts.
The advisory highlights potential impacts to both the Monday morning and evening commutes in mountain communities. Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel at higher elevations, reduce speed and check North Carolina 511 for current road conditions. Snow showers taper late Monday night, but drifting and icy patches may linger into early Tuesday.
