GREENVILLE, S.C. — Confidence is increasing that a major winter storm will impact the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia this weekend, bringing a combination of heavy snow and dangerous ice from Friday through Sunday, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service said the storm is part of a large, expanding winter system expected to sweep from the southern Rockies and Plains into the eastern United States, spreading hazardous winter weather across a wide swath of the country.
Across the western Carolinas, snow is expected north of the storm’s main transition zone, with reduced visibility and snow-covered roads likely. Areas farther south, including parts of upstate South Carolina and northeast Georgia, face an increasing risk of freezing rain and sleet, which could lead to hazardous travel conditions, downed trees, and power outages.
Forecasters warned that dangerous ice accumulations are possible where freezing rain becomes dominant, particularly south of the all-snow zone. Even light ice buildup can result in widespread impacts.
While the overall threat is becoming clearer, uncertainty remains regarding the exact placement of the heaviest snow and ice, as well as total accumulations. Officials urged residents to closely monitor forecasts as the weekend approaches.
Transportation and emergency management agencies across the region said crews are preparing for potential impacts and encouraged residents to finalize winter preparations, limit travel if conditions worsen, and stay informed through official weather updates.
