Winter storm and bitter cold temperatures
A winter storm will bring snow, sleet and freezing rain to the Carolinas today with bitter cold temperatures to follow.
AM Headlines
- Winter Weather Advisory
- Wintry Mix
- Travel Troubles
- Flash Freeze Overnight
- Bitter Cold through the End of the Week
- Warming Up Next Week
Discussion
A winter storm will bring a mix of snow, sleet and ice to the region today. The setup involves two low pressure systems — one in the Gulf that is pulling in moisture, and a coastal low strengthening off the SE coast. At the same time, Arctic high pressure is funneling cold air south creating a cold air damming set up. This means snow will likely dominate north of I-40, while areas near I-85, including the Charllotte Metro will see a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain. Areas further south and west will likely see more of a light cold rain with some sleet mixing in early on.
Expect snow to begin in the mountains and foothills between 5-9am and progress through the Piedmont by mid morning through noon. Snow/wintry mix will gradually taper off by early evening with upslope flow continuing in the mountains overnight. One last burst of light snow will be possible early Thursday.
IMPORTANT: Lightning in the Gulf is disrupting moisture transport, which tends to lead to less moisture funneling northeast, which would be towards the Carolinas. This means accumulations will likely be lower, but still could disrupt travel today and tonight.
A second round of light snow is possible Thursday morning, before Arctic air surges in behind the storm. Expect gusty northwest winds and dangerously cold wind chills in the single digits and teens Friday morning. Black ice will also be a major concern Thursday and Friday, as any wet surfaces will likely refreeze as temps fall into the teens and 20s. Temps warm up this weekend with highs getting back into the 50s Saturday and Sunday and 60s early next week.
