Greenville, SC – A Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory remain in effect for much of western North Carolina through 7 a.m. Tuesday, as heavy snow, gusty winds, and frigid wind chills continue to impact mountain communities, according to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg.
In Swain County, heavy snow is expected above 3,500 feet, with 4 to 10 inches possible and over one foot above 5,000 feet in the Smokies. Valleys may see up to 3 inches, while winds up to 45 mph will cause blowing snow and reduced visibility.
Advisories also cover Avery, Graham, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey Counties, where totals between 1 and 6 inches are expected depending on elevation. Wind chills will fall into the single digits above 4,000 feet and below zero above 5,500 feet, increasing the risk of frostbite for anyone outdoors.
Forecasters warn that travel could become treacherous or impassable, particularly on mountain passes and along the Tennessee border, where the heaviest snow bands are expected overnight. The weight of the snow may also cause tree damage and scattered power outages.
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, carry emergency supplies, and monitor 511 for updated road conditions. Conditions are expected to slowly improve Tuesday afternoon as snow showers taper off.
