Winter Storm Threatens North Carolina: Snow, Sleet, and Flooding Expected
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A powerful winter storm system is moving into North Carolina, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain, and significant rainfall, prompting a Winter Storm Watch for several counties and raising concerns about flooding and power outages.
The National Weather Service has issued the Winter Storm Watch for Alleghany, Ashe, Grayson, Carroll, Patrick, Henry, and Pittsylvania counties, effective Monday night through Wednesday morning. Residents in these areas can expect accumulating snow, sleet, and freezing rain, with moderate accumulations of freezing rain potentially causing hazardous travel conditions and power outages.
“This storm has the potential to bring significant impacts, particularly in the northern and mountainous regions of the state,” said Gene Norman, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Blacksburg. “We urge everyone to monitor the latest forecast and prepare for possible disruptions to daily life.”},
The system will also bring heavy rainfall to the region, with totals ranging from 2 to 4 inches in some areas by the end of the week. The rainfall, combined with melting snow, could lead to flooding in parts of the North Carolina Mountains and southwestern Virginia. Areas such as Boone, Sparta, Stuart, and Mount Airy are at higher risk for flooding due to the expected rainfall accumulation over three days.
Temperatures will plummet starting Monday, with highs struggling to reach the 40s throughout the week. The Triad can expect chilly rain beginning Tuesday, with a slight chance of wintry precipitation, while the mountains and areas near the Virginia border are more likely to experience a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
Authorities are advising residents to stock up on emergency supplies, including food, water, and medications, and to charge electronic devices in case of power outages. Motorists are encouraged to exercise extreme caution, especially on untreated roads, as freezing rain and black ice could make travel dangerous.
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and may issue additional warnings or watches as the storm evolves. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news and weather updates.
