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Multiple Western NC Counties Under Winter Storm Warning Including Watauga, Avery, Ashe

By Paul T. Choate

Feb. 3, 2013. A winter storm warning has been issued for multiple Western North Carolina counties, including Watauga, Avery and Ashe counties. Additionally, a winter weather advisory has been issued for Caldwell and Alleghany counties.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast office in Blacksburg, Va., an additional two to three inches of snow could fall on those counties included in the winter storm warning — with locally higher amounts on west facing slopes. Less than one inch of snow is expected in counties under the winter weather advisory.

Local weather service Ray’s Weather Center has broken out the Moderate Snow graphic on the Snowman-O-Mometer.

“By the time it is all said and done, much of the area will top out in the 3-10 inch range (a few spots could reach a foot west while along the Blue Ridge, amounts will be slightly less),” says the Ray’s Weather forecast.

Wind will also be a factor for those counties under the warning. Gusty winds in excess of 40 mph are expected, which could create blowing snow and limited visibility for motorists.

The winter storm warning and winter weather advisory will end at 7 p.m. this evening and as of now, according to The Weather Channel’s hourly forecast, the chances of significant snowfall are diminishing.

Courtesy of the National Weather Service. Click to enlarge.
Courtesy of the National Weather Service. Click to enlarge.