Carolinas Brace for Winter Weather, Charlotte Likely to Miss Major Snowfall

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – A winter weather system is expected to bring snow to parts of the Carolinas this week, but Charlotte is unlikely to see significant accumulation, according to meteorologists. The region will experience its coldest temperatures since Christmas Eve 2022, with highs forecasted at 33 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday.

WBTV meteorologists have been tracking a low-pressure system moving from the Gulf of Mexico, which is expected to bring snow primarily to areas south and east of Charlotte. Chief meteorologist Al Conklin explained, “It’s too far south for snow to really get back into the WBTV viewing area. Outside of the flurries in the mountains, there’s no snow out of this coastal system for the mountains, and very little if anything for the foothills.”

Areas like Union, Anson, and Richmond counties in North Carolina, as well as Chester and Chesterfield counties in South Carolina, may see light snow, with accumulations ranging from a dusting to an inch. However, Charlotte itself is expected to receive only a trace amount, if any. “What does form is essentially just going to be a dusting to maybe an inch of very, very light snow,” Conklin added.

While the Charlotte region is unlikely to see significant snowfall, the Carolina coast is preparing for more substantial winter weather. The South Carolina coast, particularly around Charleston, could receive several inches of snow. Parts of the North Carolina coast, including Wilmington, may also see a few inches. Winter storm watches have been issued for many coastal counties, effective from Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning.

Charleston last recorded more than an inch of snow on Jan. 3, 2018, when it received over five inches. Wilmington also saw 3.4 inches that same day. Despite the limited snowfall expected in Charlotte, Conklin cautioned, “Any untreated roads could become slick, so I’m not trying to downplay that there can’t be some impacts.”