Winter Storm Update 2/12

WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM EST THIS AFTERNOON…

Freezing rain will continue through the morning hours, with the heaviest along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The next wave of moisture moves into the area this afternoon, bringing another round of freezing rain along the Blue Ridge and in the higher elevations. A slow increase in temperatures occurs tonight, which will cause a change-over to all rain after midnight. A cold front moves through the area tomorrow with drier conditions returning by Thursday afternoon.

WHAT…Significant icing from freezing rain. Additional ice accumulations around one tenth of an inch. Another two tenths of an inch of ice accumulation is possible along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

WHERE…Portions of northwest North Carolina, southwest and west central Virginia, and southeast West Virginia.

WHEN…Until 4 PM EST this afternoon.

IMPACTS…Difficult travel conditions are expected. Trees and power lines may be damaged by the heavy icing. Expect power outages.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Temperatures east of the Appalachian Divide will remain in the lower 30s for most of the day. Temperatures are expected to warm above freezing west of the Appalachian Divide.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Prepare for possible power outages. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Persons should consider delaying all travel. Motorists should use extreme caution if travel is absolutely necessary.