A potential winter weather system is forecast to impact North and South Carolina this weekend, with increasing confidence from the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg for snow and freezing rain starting late Friday into early Sunday.
Forecast Details
Probabilistic models indicate up to 90% odds of minor winter precipitation across the Carolinas, though exact snow/ice amounts and timing remain uncertain three to five days out. The primary risk area follows Interstates 85, 26, and 77, spanning the Upstate, central Piedmont, and foothills, where slick roads could disrupt travel. Freezing rain poses risks of ice on trees/power lines, possible outages, and localized flooding from ice jams during thaw cycles.​
Preparation Steps
- Monitor small creeks/rivers and clear safe drainage areas to mitigate flood risks.
- Prepare for overnight hazards like ice, wind, and falling limbs that may cause outages or noise.
- Check NWS updates daily, as confidence will rise closer to the event; road crews are mobilizing along interstates.
Affected Groups
Students, young workers, and interstate travelers face heightened impacts into early February, especially overnight when conditions worsen. Recent Upstate storms (Jan 24-26) already brought 0.25-1 inch ice and variable snow/sleet, amplifying concerns for refreezing.​​
