Newland, NC – Heavy snow and wind gusts up to 55 mph are set to make roads impassable across parts of the North Carolina High Country through midnight Monday night, threatening widespread power outages and dangerous travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Avery County and for elevations above 3,500 feet in Mitchell County until midnight Monday night. An additional 2 to 10 inches of snow is expected in higher elevations of Mitchell County, while Avery County and lower elevations of Mitchell could see up to 7 inches. Winds may gust between 50 and 55 mph, increasing the risk of blowing snow and falling trees.
Communities including Spruce Pine, Poplar, Banner Elk and Newland will likely see snow-covered highways and secondary roads. Higher ridges near the Tennessee border face the greatest accumulation totals, where heavy, wet snow combined with strong wind could snap tree limbs and bring down power lines.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate Sunday night and remain hazardous for both the Monday morning and evening commutes. Residents should charge electronic devices, secure outdoor items and prepare for possible extended power outages. If travel is unavoidable, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle and check 511 for updated road conditions.
Snow and gusty winds will continue through midnight Monday night, and additional alerts may be issued if snowfall rates intensify.
