Winter Storm Cora Set to Hit Western North Carolina

News Summary

A major winter storm, Winter Storm Cora, is arriving in Western North Carolina on January 10, 2025, bringing substantial snowfall across the region. Snow accumulations are expected to vary by area, with the highest elevations possibly seeing up to 8 inches of snow. Travelers should prepare for dangerous conditions on the roads from Friday through Saturday morning. This storm could mark a significant snow event for cities like Asheville and Greenville, which have been dry for snowfall in recent years.

Winter Wonderland Ahead for Western North Carolina!

Hey there, Western North Carolina! Get ready to dust off those snow boots and grab your favorite hot cocoa because a big winter storm is headed your way! Yes, folks, we’re talking about **Winter Storm Cora**, which is set to blanket our region with **significant snowfall** starting on the morning of Friday, January 10, 2025. So, let’s dive into all the snowy details!

When and Where Will It Happen?

Winter Storm Cora is expected to kick off Friday morning, starting in the **southwestern parts of our fair region**. As the day progresses, the storm will steadily make its way to the east and northeast, bringing that fluffy white stuff along with it. The majority of snow and ice accumulation will likely happen during the daylight hours on Friday, so you might want to plan your day accordingly!

What’s In Store for Snow Accumulation?

Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty! How much snow are we actually looking at? Depending on where you are, estimates for snowfall are as follows:

1-2 inches for most Foothill areas.
2-4 inches throughout the French Broad River Valley, including Asheville — that’s us!
3-6 inches for those southwestern valleys.
And for elevations above 3,500 feet in the southwestern mountains, get ready for a whopping 6-8 inches!

But wait, there’s more! Some areas east of Asheville may experience snow even after the sun has set, so don’t put away those winter gears just yet. If you’re closer to the Upstate of South Carolina, be aware that there may be a mix of sleet and freezing rain, which could complicate matters a bit!

Dangers on the Road

If you’re planning to travel during this snowy period, think again! Dangerous travel conditions are on the agenda from Friday into Saturday morning. Roads may turn into slick, snow-covered lanes, especially those that haven’t been treated. So if you’re hitting the road, be super cautious!

A Snowy Surprise!

Believe it or not, this storm is set to deliver **significant snowfall** to areas that have been lacking in the snow department for a while. Cities like **Greenville (SC), Asheville, Charlotte, and Raleigh (NC)** haven’t seen an inch of snow since January 2022 — that’s quite a dry spell! Meanwhile, folks in Atlanta are experiencing a nearly six-year stretch without seeing an inch of snow. Talk about a winter without a bang!

What Makes This Storm Different?

This winter storm might just save the season! The storm track suggests conditions are ripe for snow, thanks to the existing Arctic air and low-pressure systems pulling in moisture from the Gulf. Things this winter are looking a lot better than the previous couple, where milder weather rules were dictated by dominant southerly winds.

Stay Tuned!

While this storm promises to bring some snowy excitement, it’s essential to remember that final totals and storm impacts can change as meteorologists keep a close eye on the situation. So stay tuned for updates and enjoy the beauty of a winter wonderland—just remember to keep safety in mind.

Final Thoughts

As we brace ourselves for Winter Storm Cora, let’s all embrace the cozy vibes! Whether it’s building snowmen, having a snowball fight, or simply staying inside and watching the snowfall, let’s make the most of it. Stay safe and warm out there, Western North Carolina.