Winter Storm in Alleghany, North Carolina

Snowfall reports from trained spotters, the Department of Highways, and the public ranged from 4 to 8 inches of mixed snow and sleet across the county, with highest reports coming from Laurel Springs and Hollins. Key Impacts: Impassable roads, snow covered roads, traffic delays.

Persistent northeasterly flow prior to the event ensured that there was substantial cold air throughout the atmosphere. A low pressure system tracked through the southern United States and moved north over northwest NC overnight on January 16th through the 17th, spreading snowfall from south to north. As this system was making its way north, the northeasterly flow was displaced, and a layer of warm air was allowed to filter in over the low levels, turning snow over to sleet and freezing rain. Shortly after the system passed, high winds compounded issues created by freshly accumulated snow and ice.