MCHS– A winter weather advisory has been issued for parts of Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia, as freezing rain and hazardous travel conditions are expected to affect the region starting tonight.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that areas west of I-77, including Boone, North Carolina, Wytheville, Virginia, and Bluefield, West Virginia, will see a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow beginning at midnight tonight and lasting through Sunday morning. The main concern will be freezing rain, which is expected to accumulate up to one-tenth of an inch, creating slippery and potentially dangerous conditions on roads.
While snow or sleet may briefly mix in, the total snowfall is expected to be minimal, amounting to less than an inch. The freezing rain is the primary threat, particularly in areas with lower temperatures. As the freezing rain falls, it will create a glaze of ice on road surfaces, making travel difficult. In addition, ice could accumulate on trees and power lines, leading to possible outages.
The NWS advisory will be in effect until noon on Sunday, but drivers should be cautious as icy patches may persist, especially in shaded areas. The weather service is advising residents and travelers to be prepared for hazardous conditions and to monitor local weather updates closely.
Traveling on Icy Roads
As freezing rain begins to fall, roads across the affected areas will likely become slick, particularly early on Sunday morning when the ice is most likely to accumulate. NWS officials urge drivers to slow down and avoid sudden movements on the road to prevent accidents. Morning commutes may be severely impacted, with icy roads making travel dangerous. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution and plan ahead, taking into account the potential for delays.
For the safest travel experience, it’s recommended that residents check road conditions before heading out by calling 511 or checking local traffic updates. Conditions could change rapidly, and roads may become impassable in some locations due to ice buildup.
Preparing for the Storm
With the potential for hazardous weather, residents are encouraged to prepare in advance. Ensuring that vehicles are winter-ready is essential. Drivers should check that their tires are properly inflated, and they should have essentials on hand, such as windshield washer fluid, ice scrapers, and emergency kits.
Local authorities also recommend staying updated on weather alerts throughout the storm. Those planning to travel should consider postponing their trips until conditions improve to avoid being caught on the road in hazardous weather.
The NWS is reminding everyone that winter weather conditions can change quickly, and safety should be the top priority. Ice on roadways, especially on bridges and overpasses, can form rapidly, so it’s important to be cautious even if conditions seem manageable at first.
As the advisory expires by noon on Sunday, the weather conditions should gradually improve, but it’s important to remember that icy patches could persist throughout the day in shaded or sheltered areas. Commuters are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution even after the weather advisory ends.
Stay Safe
In summary, residents of northwest North Carolina, southwest Virginia, and southeast West Virginia should be prepared for a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow tonight into Sunday morning. Travelers should expect hazardous road conditions, particularly in the early hours of Sunday, and are urged to slow down and use extra caution while on the road. It’s also important to stay informed through weather updates and make preparations to ensure safety during this winter weather event.
