Winter Storm Warning Issued for High Elevations in North Carolina and Virginia Through Midnight
NWS Blacksburg has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Ashe, Watauga, Grayson, and Smyth counties. Heavy snow and 45 mph wind gusts are expected at elevations above 3,500 feet.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Blacksburg, VA, has issued a Winter Storm Warning for high-elevation areas in North Carolina and Virginia. The alert is currently in effect and remains active until midnight EST tonight.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following regions:
- North Carolina: Ashe and Watauga Counties.
- Virginia: Grayson and Smyth Counties.
Expected Conditions
Heavy snow is expected primarily for elevations above 3,500 feet. Residents can expect additional snow accumulations of up to one inch. Strong winds are also a factor, with gusts reaching as high as 45 mph. These conditions may cause visibilities to drop below one-quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow. Gusty winds could also bring down tree branches.
Timeline
The Winter Storm Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to expire at 12:00 AM EST on February 24, 2026.
What You Should Do
Travel is strongly discouraged, and persons should consider delaying all trips. If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists should use extreme caution as roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5-1-1.
Source: NOAA Official Notice