Newland, NC – A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Avery County, where freezing rain is expected to develop overnight and continue through Sunday morning, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville–Spartanburg.
The advisory runs from 1 AM to 9 AM Sunday, covering the communities of Ingalls, Newland, and Banner Elk, along with surrounding High Country elevations. A light glaze of ice is forecast, but even small amounts of freezing rain can make travel treacherous.
Icy conditions are expected on roads, bridges, elevated surfaces, and sidewalks, especially before sunrise when temperatures are most favorable for freezing. Motorists traveling through mountain passes and neighborhoods with shaded roadways may encounter slick patches that develop quickly.
NWS also cautions that a light glaze of ice can place stress on tree limbs and power lines, raising the risk of isolated power outages in higher elevations. Residents should be prepared with flashlights, charged phones, and extra blankets in case of brief disruptions.
Road conditions should begin to improve after 9 AM Sunday as temperatures rise above freezing and precipitation transitions to plain rain or drizzle.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and use extra caution on curves, inclines, and bridges—areas that typically freeze first. Travelers can check statewide updates by calling 511.
Residents heading outside early Sunday should watch for slick steps, driveways, and walkways.
