BRYSON CITY, NC – The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Swain County, in effect until 7 a.m. Tuesday, with a Winter Weather Advisory below 3,500 feet.
Forecasters expect 4 to 10 inches of snow above 3,500 feet, with over a foot possible above 5,000 feet in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains. Valleys could see up to 3 inches. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph will create blowing snow, poor visibility, and hazardous driving conditions.
The NWS cautions that travel may be very difficult to impossible in higher terrain, with the potential for power outages as heavy, wet snow weighs down tree limbs and power lines. Wind chills are expected to drop into the single digits above 4,000 feet, and may dip below zero on the peaks.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and check 511 for the latest road conditions. Those venturing outdoors should dress in layers and prepare for dangerous cold and reduced visibility.
This marks one of the first major winter events of the season for western North Carolina, signaling an early start to harsh mountain weather.
