Last Updated on February 5, 2026 1:18 pm

The National Weather Service has issued alerts for multiple counties in western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina.

Avery County Winter Weather Advisory

  • Timing: 1 PM Friday to 7 AM EST Saturday

  • Precipitation: Snow

  • Accumulation: 1 to 4 inches

  • Location-specific: Up to 6 inches near Tennessee border

  • Winds: Gusting up to 65 mph

High Wind Watch

  • Timing: Friday evening through Saturday evening

  • Wind Conditions:

    • Northwest winds 20 to 30 mph

    • Gusts up to 65 mph possible

Potential Impacts

  • Snow-covered roads

  • Scattered power outages

  • Hazardous Friday evening commute

  • Potential extensive tree and power line damage

  • Blowing and drifting snow

  • Wind chill values dropping to around -5 degrees early Saturday morning

Affected Areas

Counties include:

  • Avery

  • Alexander

  • Yancey

  • Mitchell

  • Buncombe

  • Southern Jackson

  • Transylvania

  • Henderson

  • Caldwell

  • Burke

  • McDowell

  • Rutherford

  • Polk

Including but not limited to:

  • Rutherfordton

  • Banner Elk

  • Marion

  • Asheville

  • Brevard

  • Morganton

  • Newland

  • Lenoir

Safety Recommendations

  • Slow down and use caution while traveling

  • Check road conditions by calling 511

  • Prepare for potential power interruptions

  • Secure loose objects

  • Stay informed through weather updates