If you’re in North Carolina, it’s time to prepare for some messy winter weather. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect as light snow, sleet, and freezing rain are expected from Wednesday morning through Thursday.
While this isn’t a major snowstorm, even a small amount of ice can turn roads into slippery nightmares, especially in areas that don’t often see winter weather. If you have travel plans, you’ll want to be extra careful.
What’s Happening Right Now?
It’s already chilly across the state, but it’s about to get worse. Here’s where temperatures are sitting as of this morning:
- Raleigh: 33°F, mostly sunny
- Charlotte: 31°F, mostly sunny
- Asheville: 25°F, mostly sunny
- Greensboro: 31°F, sunny
- Wilmington: 38°F, sunny
So far, things seem fine, but by Wednesday afternoon, snow and ice will start moving in.
When Will the Weather Get Bad?
Wednesday (Feb. 19)
- Morning: Snow showers could start in the mountains near Asheville and Boone.
- Afternoon: Snow and sleet spread east, affecting Greensboro, Raleigh, and Charlotte. Some areas may see a mix of rain and snow at first before switching to freezing rain.
- Evening: The worst conditions are expected during the evening commute. Roads could become slick quickly, even in areas that don’t see much accumulation.
Thursday (Feb. 20)
- Overnight: As temperatures drop, anything wet will refreeze, leading to dangerous black ice Thursday morning.
- Morning: If you have to go anywhere, be prepared for slick, icy roads—especially on bridges and overpasses.
- Afternoon: Skies clear up, but it stays cold, keeping icy spots around well into the evening.
How Much Snow and Ice Are We Getting?
This isn’t a massive snowstorm, but here’s what’s expected across the state:
- Raleigh: Less than an inch of snow, with a thin layer of ice
- Charlotte: 1 to 2 inches of snow, with some sleet mixed in
- Asheville: 2 to 4 inches of snow, possibly more in higher elevations
- Greensboro: 1 to 2 inches of snow, plus a light glaze of ice
- Wilmington: Mostly cold rain, but inland areas may see some freezing drizzle
Even though these totals aren’t huge, keep in mind that ice is a bigger problem than snow—just a thin layer can make roads dangerously slick.
Biggest Concerns: What You Need to Watch For
Roads Will Be Slippery – Even a small amount of snow and ice can cause wrecks and traffic delays. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads will freeze first.
Possible Power Outages – Ice can weigh down power lines and trees, so scattered outages can’t be ruled out.
Bitter Cold & Black Ice – Even after the storm moves out, anything that melts during the day will refreeze overnight, creating hidden ice patches Thursday morning.
Weather Alerts & Warnings
Winter Weather Advisory – In effect from Wednesday morning through Thursday morning for much of central and western North Carolina. Expect snow, sleet, and freezing rain, making travel difficult.
Black Ice Alert – Thursday morning could be especially dangerous as leftover moisture refreezes, creating nearly invisible ice patches on roads and sidewalks.
How to Stay Safe During This Storm
Limit Travel If Possible – If you can work from home or delay errands, do it. The worst road conditions will be Wednesday evening and early Thursday morning.
Prepare for Power Outages – Have flashlights, extra blankets, and phone chargers ready in case ice brings down power lines.
Stock Up on Essentials – Get groceries, water, and any medications before the weather arrives.
Check on Family & Neighbors – Make sure elderly relatives and friends have heat and supplies in case power goes out.
Watch for Black Ice – Just because a road looks clear doesn’t mean it’s safe. Ice will be nearly invisible Thursday morning.
This isn’t a blockbuster winter storm, but it is sneaky. Snow, sleet, and ice will make travel dangerous, especially Wednesday night into Thursday morning. If you don’t have to drive, stay put. If you do, slow down and stay alert for ice.
