Weekend Winter Storm: Ice Storm Warning in effect

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA (WCCB) —

Ice Storm Warning in effect for the piedmont, foothills along with Avery county until Monday at 1 pm.

Winter Storm Warning in effect for Ashe and Watauga counties until Monday at 1 pm.

Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Stanly, Anson and Richmond counties until Monday at 1 pm.FORECAST SNOW/SLEET AND ICE TOTALS:

• NC Piedmont:
  • Ice: 0.50”+” (0.75” not off the table near I-85)
  • Sleet: 1-2”
• Foothills:
  • Ice: 0.25-0.50”
  • Snow & Sleet: 2-4”
• Mountains:
  • Ice: 0.25-0.50”
  • Snow & Sleet: 3-6”

QUESTION MARK:

• How much will fall as freezing rain and how much will fall as sleet? This depends on the temperature well above our heads.

IMPACTS:

• Widespread hazardous road conditions
• Power outages likely

TIMING:

• Late afternoon – early evening Saturday through Sunday.

COLD TEMPERATURES:

• This is a big problem if we have prolonged power outages and snow or ice on the ground. It could take days and days to melt. I am still forecasting single digit low temperatures early next week

Better to prepare now:

• Have enough food, water and medicine to last several days
• Get flashlights and batteries
• Put gas in your car – gas stations may lose power
• Have an extra heat source – get a generator if you’re able. Get firewood. Have plenty of blankets.
• Check your carbon monoxide and snow detectors (snow and/or ice accumulation can block vents so you want to make sure these are working)