Snow Chances in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia

Why this matters: While the event is not expected to cause major disruptions, residents should be aware of the potential for slick spots and exercise caution, especially on Monday morning.

A complex weather system is bringing the chance of a rain-to-snow mix to the Southeast. The system has been volatile and difficult to forecast, influenced by a small, fast-moving piece of energy high in the atmosphere. Hurricane Hunters sampled the atmosphere to improve model data, which shifted the system farther northwest, bringing parts of southern Alabama, Georgia, and the western Carolinas back into play.

Limited moisture is available, and cold air can get trapped west of the mountains. Totals depend on how quickly rain flips to snow. Light rain may begin shortly after midnight with temperatures near 40°, then gradually cool toward freezing. If enough time is spent in snow, wet snow coating grass and elevated surfaces may occur.

The I-77 corridor, including Charlotte, is being closely watched, where a narrow deformation band could enhance snowfall if it sets up just right. However, pinpointing that feature is difficult.

Overall, this is not expected to be a major storm, and roads should generally be OK, though slick spots are possible where totals approach an inch or more. Another cold blast arrives next week, bringing dangerously cold conditions back to the region. The mountains face the most severe cold, with lows dipping into the single digits and teens Sunday night, Monday night and Tuesday night. The Upstate is also cold with lows in the 20s. Highs are in the 30s and 40s with the coldest day on Tuesday with highs only in the mid 30s to the low 40s. Wind chills could plunge below zero again as strong winds develop behind a powerful high-pressure system.

What is the timing for potential snow?

The best chance of seeing snow is expected between 7 a.m. and noon on Sunday. A second timing window is between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday.

How much snow is expected?

Accumulation is anticipated to be less than one inch, primarily on elevated surfaces. A dusting is more likely than higher amounts of snowfall.

Where is snow most likely?

Snow is possible in Asheville, Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Athens, and Atlanta (light snow, minor impact). Charlotte, Columbia, Rock Hill, Statesville, Mooresville, and the Foothills have a better chance for 1-2 inches, which could mean a few slick spots.

What about black ice?

With any leftover moisture on the roads, black ice could form early Monday morning as temperatures drop into the teens and 20s.

Do you think this trend will last? Let us know!

Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!