Asheville, North Carolina – A powerful winter storm is expected to impact large portions of Tennessee and North Carolina beginning Sunday night, bringing snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures that could disrupt travel, utilities, and daily life through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service, precipitation will spread across both states late Sunday, with snow becoming heavy at times through Monday, especially across higher elevations and interior sections. Arctic air pushing south behind the storm is expected to drive temperatures well below normal, creating hazardous wind chills and increasing the risk of frostbite during overnight hours.
The most significant travel impacts are expected across the southern Appalachians and along major corridors including Interstate 40, Interstate 26, Interstate 81, and Interstate 75. Western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee face the highest potential for accumulating snow, with blowing snow reducing visibility in mountain passes. Lower elevations and parts of central North Carolina could see periods of sleet or freezing rain, increasing the risk of icy bridges, downed tree limbs, and scattered power outages.
Emergency officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel during periods of heavy snow or ice, prepare vehicles with winter supplies, and protect homes, pets, and plumbing from prolonged cold. Prolonged subfreezing temperatures could also strain power and heating systems.
Winter storm warnings and cold weather advisories are expected to remain in effect through Tuesday, with additional alerts possible as the storm track and intensity continue to evolve across Tennessee and North Carolina.
