Winter Storm Approaching Western North Carolina

News Summary

Asheville residents should prepare for a winter storm arriving on Wednesday, February 19. Snow accumulation is expected to be less than one inch in most areas, with higher elevations possibly receiving 2 to 4 inches. Public Works crews are ready to address the storm and maintain safe roadways. Travelers should also check for potential flight delays and school schedule adjustments due to the weather. Stay informed and safe as winter weather unfolds in the region.

Winter Storm on the Way to Western North Carolina!

Asheville residents, get ready! A winter storm is rolling into the western Carolinas this week, and it’s predicted to start making its presence felt on Wednesday morning, February 19. By the time the snow wraps up, most areas could see less than one inch of snow accumulation, bringing a little flair to your week. However, if you’re in the higher elevations above 3,500 feet, you might want to prepare for a bit more—between 2 to 4 inches of fluffy white snow is in the forecast!

What’s in Store

While a bit of snow is on the way, it looks like it won’t be a massive storm. Treated roads should remain safe for travel, but you might encounter some slick spots on untreated roads, so be cautious out there! The temperatures are expected to drop significantly overnight from Wednesday to Thursday, making it feel quite a bit chillier. Just think of the cozy vibes with a cup of hot cocoa!

Additional Snow on the Horizon

And it doesn’t stop there! On Thursday, folks near the Tennessee state line can expect some additional snow showers, which could add a bit more excitement to the weather. That’s perfect if you love the beauty of a winter wonderland, but make sure you bundle up, as wind chills are anticipated to reach the teens and twenties by the end of the week.

City Crews Are on It!

The Asheville Public Works crews are gearing up for the storm! With a stockpile of 3,000 tons of salt, they plan to use about a third of that during this event. The team is busy prepping plows and spreaders and has 30 trucks in position and ready to roll! To keep those roads clear, you can expect a brine solution to be applied ahead of time; this tactic helps delay the formation of ice on January 9, ensuring safer travel for everyone.

Staying Safe and Staying Put

As the storm nears, around 60 crew members will be deployed to work tirelessly throughout the storm response. It’s worth noting that some leftover debris from the previous storm, Helene, could complicate snow treatment efforts. Because of this, residents are kindly advised to stay at home if possible, allowing crews to do their jobs efficiently.

Flight Schedules and School Closures

Heads up, travelers! The winter storm may affect flight schedules at Asheville Regional Airport, leading to some delays and cancellations. If you’re planning to fly anywhere, keep an eye on those updates, as weather conditions can impact flights to and from other destinations. Plus, some local schools are shifting their schedules due to the snow, meaning closures and delays could be on the agenda.

A Cautious Approach

As the realities of winter weather set in, it’s crucial to stay informed and updated. Remember, the storm forecast can change within 12 to 24 hours, so staying tuned to the latest weather alerts is always a wise move. Whether you’re an avid snow lover or someone who prefers milder weather, this storm is sure to bring a mix of excitement, caution, and that classic winter atmosphere to beautiful Asheville and the surrounding areas.

So, prepare yourselves and enjoy the potential beauty that snow can bring! Stay warm, stay safe, and embrace the winter season!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Brace For the Chill: Polar Vortex Hits the U.S.
Severe Weather Hits Eastern U.S. with Floods and Snow
Asheville Fire Department Assists Kentucky Amid Flood Crisis
Asheville’s Housing Crisis Deepened by Hurricane Helene: A Call for Action!
Severe Storms and Flooding Impact Southeastern U.S.
Winter Storm Warning Issued for North Carolina
Severe Storms Cause Destructive Flooding Across Southeast U.S.
Asheville City Council Advances Housing Authority Restructuring
Asheville Residents Discuss Infrastructure Needs with Federal Funding
Southern California Braces for Severe Storms and Mudslide Threats

Additional Resources

• WLOS: Asheville Public Works Crews Preparing for Snow
• Wikipedia: Winter Storm
• WLOS: Impactful Storm Heading to WNC
• Google Search: Winter Weather North Carolina
• WLOS: Hazardous Road Conditions in NC Mountains
• Google News: Winter Storm Asheville