North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia High Country Faces Dangerous Winds and Heavy Mountain Snow From Friday Night Into Saturday
NORTH CAROLINA — Another round of strong winds and mountain snow is setting up across the High Country of North Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and southwest Virginia, with the most significant impacts expected from Friday night through Saturday. While this will not be a widespread winter storm for lower elevations, conditions in the mountains could deteriorate quickly with powerful wind gusts, blowing snow, and hazardous travel.
What’s Driving This Weekend’s High Country Weather Pattern
An active northwest-flow setup is taking shape as colder air moves in behind a departing system. Moisture being forced upslope against the mountains will allow snow to develop efficiently in higher elevations, even while surrounding foothill and valley areas see minimal impacts.
Strong Winds Expected to Be the Primary Hazard
Forecast data indicates a high wind watch for portions of the High Country, with widespread gusts of 35 to 45 mph likely. On exposed ridges and higher peaks, gusts could exceed 60 mph, especially near locations such as Black Mountain, Boone, and the Asheville-area ridgelines.
These winds may lead to downed tree limbs, isolated power outages, and difficult travel for high-profile vehicles, particularly along mountain passes.
Snowfall Potential Focused on Higher Elevations
Snow development will increase late Friday night into Saturday as moisture deepens over the mountains. The most consistent snowfall is expected west of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, including areas such as Boone, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Mt. Mitchell, and nearby communities close to the Tennessee border.
Lower elevations and valleys may see only a light coating to around 2 inches, but elevations above 4,000 feet could receive 4 to 8 inches of snow, with locally higher amounts on favored northwest-facing slopes.
Travel Conditions Could Deteriorate Quickly
Even where snowfall totals are moderate, snow squalls and blowing snow may significantly reduce visibility. Roads could become slick in a short period of time, especially during heavier bursts of snow. Drivers should be prepared for rapid changes in road conditions, particularly Saturday morning.
Safety Tips for Residents and Travelers
Residents in the High Country are urged to secure loose outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and prepare for the possibility of brief power interruptions. Travelers should consider delaying trips through mountain areas and keep emergency supplies on hand if travel is necessary.
This system reinforces that winter is not finished with the region yet, especially in higher elevations. Are you seeing increasing winds or snowfall where you live, or planning to head into the mountains this weekend? Share your experience and stay connected with updates at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
