Southeast Region – A widespread Winter Storm Watch is in effect this weekend across much of the Southeast, with heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions possible from Friday through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service, the watch covers large portions of Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and West Virginia, with timing varying by location. Most areas are expected to see impacts beginning Friday afternoon or evening, continuing into Sunday.
Forecast snowfall ranges widely across the region. Portions of central and eastern North Carolina could see 5 to 16 inches, with the highest totals near the coast and Outer Banks. Areas of northeast North Carolina and southeast Virginia may receive 8 to 15 inches, accompanied by coastal wind gusts up to 60 mph, raising the risk of whiteout conditions.
In the southern Appalachians, including eastern Tennessee, southwest Virginia, western North Carolina, and northeast Georgia, snowfall totals of 3 to 8 inches are possible, with locally higher amounts in higher elevations. Mountain wind gusts could reach 35 to 45 mph, causing blowing and drifting snow.
Across South Carolina and east-central Georgia, snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are possible, with bitter cold expected Saturday night and Sunday morning. Wind chills may drop to near or below zero in parts of Georgia and the Carolinas.
The National Weather Service warns that travel could become very difficult to impossible, especially from Friday evening through Sunday. Snow-covered roads, falling tree limbs, and scattered power outages are possible across multiple states.
Residents are urged to monitor updated forecasts, prepare for potential travel disruptions, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm period.
