Asheville Prepares for a Rainy Holiday Season as White Christmas Chances Dwindle

Asheville, N.C. Gears Up for a Non-Traditional Christmas

Ah, the holidays! A time of joy, festivities, and of course, the age-old question: Will we have a white Christmas this year? As we count down the days to Christmas—just nine away now—it seems like a good moment to dive into what the weather might have in store for us in Asheville this season.

Snow and Sleds or Rain and Relaxation?

With excitement and a touch of disappointment, many are asking: Will I need my snow boots or my raincoat this Christmas? Unfortunately, the outlook for a traditional snowy holiday isn’t promising for 2024. According to recent assessments, the chances of waking up to a snowy wonderland in our beloved Asheville are looking slim. In fact, on average, your chance of seeing a white Christmas here is only about 7%.

If you venture a little further out to Hendersonville, the numbers are a bit bleaker at 2%. However, if you’re looking toward Marshall, the odds increase slightly to 11%. So, while there may be some slight hope for those in Marshall, it’s definitely not a safe bet for snow lovers in Asheville and Hendersonville.

The Mountain Advantage

Now, if you’re feeling adventurous and up for a drive, don’t forget about Mt. Mitchell! Up in those higher elevations, the odds of a white Christmas shoot up dramatically to a more hopeful 43%. However, it’s crucial to remember that even with those odds, there’s still a greater chance that we won’t be seeing snow on Christmas Day.

What About the Weather?

This year, our holiday season might be more about rain than snow. Forecasts suggest that we could be in for a wet Christmas, with potential rain predicted for December 25. That’s right; instead of frosty air and the sound of sleds whooshing down snow-covered hills, we might hear the gentle pitter-patter of raindrops.

This isn’t just a local phenomenon; the Climate Prediction Center is also reporting that Asheville, along with much of the country, is likely to experience well above-average temperatures from December 24 through December 30. So, if you’re planning to spend the day outdoors celebrating, make sure you keep an eye on the temperature as well as the precipitation!

For the Snow Seekers

For those who have their hearts set on a true winter wonderland this holiday season, it looks like you might want to pack your bags and head north. Regions such as the Rockies, Upstate New York, New England, and even Northern Minnesota or Wisconsin are where the chances of a white Christmas are more favorable. If you want to catch snowflakes on your tongue or engage in a heated snowball fight, those spots are your best bet!

Wrapping Up

Stay tuned for more updates and enjoy the festive buzz around town. Wishing everyone a warm and joyful holiday season!