Appalachian Region Winter Weather Outlook: Could the First Snow Arrive Before Thanksgiving?
ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA — The Appalachian Mountains may be in for their first taste of winter just before Thanksgiving, according to the latest update from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC).
After an unusually mild start to November, colder air from the Midwest is expected to sweep into the region later in the month, colliding with lingering mountain moisture. That combination could produce light snow or a wintry mix across the higher elevations of North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and eastern Tennessee between November 18–25.
Early Snow Chances for the High Country
Forecasters say the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains, and West Virginia’s high ridges are the most likely areas to see early flakes. Even modest accumulations could impact mountain passes and holiday travel routes ahead of the Thanksgiving rush.
“While the lowlands will likely see rain, the higher terrain could experience the season’s first snow as temperatures dip just before the holiday,” NOAA meteorologists noted.
Lowlands Stay Rain-Only, For Now
Cities such as Knoxville, Roanoke, and Asheville are forecast to remain too warm for snow, with showers expected instead of flurries. However, forecasters caution that weather patterns can shift rapidly this time of year.
A strong Thanksgiving week cold front could be enough to trigger the first measurable snow in select Appalachian zones, marking the transition into a more active winter pattern for late November and December.
Residents planning holiday travel through the mountains should monitor conditions closely as the month progresses and prepare for possible slippery roads at higher elevations.
Stay up to date on regional forecasts and early winter alerts at NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.