The hits just keep coming fo WNC! Today the higher elevations (above 4000’) of WNC will see convective snow showers develop and heavy snow will fall. As these cells exit the high elevations, the snow will turn to rain as it pushes into the valleys around Asheville. A rumble of thunder or two cannot be ruled out. Below you can see the most recent simulated radar from the Nam 3-km.
Timing
I expect clouds to gather around or just before noon along the NC/TN border as convection is initiated in E TN. Then these cells will move into Asheville and out of the mountains of WNC. So around 12-5pm seems to be the best window to see snowfall in the highest elevation. If you would like to experience it, head up to Roan Mountain… the rates should be fantastic!
Gusty Winds Expected
Winds gusting over 35mph around Asheville will be possible later tonight and into early Thursday morning. Locations above 3500’ in WNC could see gusts over 45mph with this front, so it would be wise to secure outdoor accessories before rain enters WNC. Below you can see the most recent wind gust projections from the Nam 3km.
Frost Expected This Weekend
A frost will be likely both Saturday and Sunday mornings this weekend so it would be wish this week to get a plan in place to cover sensitive vegetation. Below you can see the most recent GFS model projection for low temps on Sunday AM. Yes that would shatter a record for that particular day which is 32 degrees.
Frost Damage
Frost damage will certainly be possible to many delicate trees. Many farmers will wet their crops the night before the frost, and you can also use a bed sheet to cover and protect vegetation. Below is an anomaly map showing how many degrees from average locations around WNC are projected to be Saturday morning.