A weak low pressure will move along the Gulf Coast today and then into the Atlantic bringing rainfall to many across the Southeast. As that low pressure moves out into the Atlantic, another piece of energy associated with the Northern Jet Stream will begin to interact. Winds will pick up around WNC, and Northwest flow snow showers are very likely around WNC. In fact, some of these showers could break containment along the NC/TN border and push all the way into Downtown Asheville periodically throughout the day on Friday. Below you can see how the most recent NAM 3km shows the event unfolding.
Who Will See Accumulation?
Location above 3000’ around WNC within 15-20 miles of the NC/TN border stand the best chance for seeing accumulating snowfall from this event, but with high winds and a deepening low pressure out at sea… snow streamers could certainly bring a dusting to locations North of I-40. Below you can see the projected snowfall map from the most recent NAM 3km, and indeed it does show those snow showers breaking out of the highest elevations, and even providing a dusting to select valley locations around Asheville.
High Winds Likely Friday Around WNC
Winds will pickup on the backside of this frontal passage and gust over 30mph in many valley locations around WNC. High peaks above 3500’ could see gusts over 45mph with blowing snow. Below you can see the most recent Nam 3km wind gusts tomorrow afternoon around WNC. Notice how peak gusts well over 30 mph are registering at the Asheville Airport.
Choice Weekend In Store For WNC
This is the weekend you have been waiting all year for! Saturday will be a bit chilly, but highs show push close to 50 degrees. Then on Sunday we will see highs around WNC in the 60’s with plenty of sunshine! Check out the long range GFS below. Also check out the 70’s that it is showing mid next week!!
Volatile Pattern Ahead
Several models have a big East Coast storm in the long range after several days of above average temperatures. This will at least give WNC another shot at Northwest flow snowfall as we progress through mid March. Another freeze also looks possible in the long range, but it doesn’t appear to be a sustained freeze that would devastate early vegetation. Check back soon for more updates as we progress towards Spring!