A powerful winter storm is heading straight for Virginia and North Carolina, bringing a chaotic mix of heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Forecasters are sounding the alarm—this storm has the potential to cause dangerous road conditions, power outages, and bone-chilling temperatures. If you haven’t started preparing yet, now’s the time!
What’s Coming Your Way?
This storm is expected to hit hardest south of Interstate 64, with some areas getting buried under snow while others face a dangerous coating of ice.
Virginia’s Forecast:
- Richmond: Expect snow to start falling Wednesday afternoon, adding up to 2-4 inches (5-10 cm). Roads will turn slick fast, making travel slow and risky.
- Norfolk: A messy mix of snow and sleet is on the way Wednesday afternoon, with 1-3 inches of accumulation. Sidewalks and untreated roads will get dangerously slippery.
- Charlottesville: Brace for a frigid blast—3-6 inches (6-12 cm) of snow is expected, with strong winds causing snowdrifts that could make driving extra hazardous.
North Carolina’s Forecast:
- Raleigh: A wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain is on tap for Wednesday afternoon. Ice buildup could make roads treacherous and even bring down tree branches.
- Charlotte: Rain will shift to freezing rain and sleet Wednesday evening. No major snow, but icy roads and bridges could make travel a nightmare.
- Asheville: Morning rain and freezing rain will give way to snow and sleet by the afternoon. Even a little accumulation could turn untreated roads into an ice rink.
Biggest Concern: Ice and Power Outages
One of the biggest dangers with this storm is ice. Even a thin layer can snap tree limbs and knock out power. The worst icing is expected in central and eastern North Carolina, where freezing rain could coat everything in a thick, glassy glaze by Wednesday night.
How to Stay Safe
With rough weather ahead, here’s what you can do to stay ahead of the storm:
- Stay Off the Roads: If you don’t have to drive, don’t. If you must go out, pack an emergency kit with blankets, snacks, and water.
- Get Ready for Power Outages: Charge your devices, stock up on essentials, and have flashlights and extra layers on hand.
- Stay Informed: Keep checking the latest weather updates and be ready to act if emergency alerts are issued.
This storm is part of a larger winter weather pattern that’s already caused major disruptions across the mid-Atlantic. Don’t wait until the last minute—get prepared now.
