ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Autumn’s lingering warmth is about to slam into a taste of winter in the North Carolina mountains, as a powerful arctic front sweeps in late Sunday bringing the season’s first real shot of snow, bitter wind chills and a reminder that mountain weather can turn on a dime.
The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Swain County beginning at 7 p.m. Sunday, where elevations above 3,500 feet could see heavy snow and totals up to 8 inches in the Smokies. Wind gusts up to 45 mph may create blowing snow, dangerous visibility and power outages from falling limbs and lines.
A Winter Weather Advisory is posted for Avery County, where up to 3 inches of snow is expected and higher peaks could collect more. Forecasters warn the Monday morning and evening commutes may be affected by slick, snow-covered roads.
Similar advisories cover Graham, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell and Yancey counties, where up to 4 inches of snow is possible above 3,500 feet and isolated higher amounts could fall above 5,000 feet. Scattered outages and hazardous travel conditions are possible throughout the region.
Drivers are encouraged to prepare for rapidly changing conditions, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles and check updated forecasts before heading out.
Asheville’s weekend warmth won’t last. Temperatures will plunge overnight Sunday with a low near 27 and wind gusts topping 30 mph. Snow showers are possible Monday afternoon, though little to no accumulation is expected in the city.
Monday’s high is forecast near 34, with wind gusts as strong as 34 mph, making it feel even colder. Temperatures will drop into the teens Monday night before slowly rebounding midweek.
Veterans Day will be sunny but brisk, with a high near 44. By Wednesday and late week, highs are expected to climb back into the 60s.
Check 828newsnow.com on Monday morning for any school closures and delays.