February 14, 2023

Good Morning,

Wishing a happy Valentines Day to all! It’s a beautiful and breathtaking scene up here getting to enjoy to clear and sunny skies after our most recent snowfall. The unabated sunshine yesterday and gradually rising temps shaved a couple inches off our total accumulation, but there’s still a solid 6” of snow and soon-to-be slush. Monday witnessed a high temp of 39° followed by a low of 24°. We’re already above freezing this morning at sunrise and could achieve a high reading near 50° later today.

US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) is still closed due to the lingering hazardous driving conditions, but Cherokee Orchard Rd appears to be open. The sun on skin will feel delightful to anyone rambling through the woods today, but trail conditions will continue to be slick and slippery as warming temps liquify the snowpack underfoot. Have those traction devices handy if looking to make an ascent into the higher elevations today. If the main road does not reopen today, it could be due to the rough weather expected to roll in this evening. Beginning at 5:00 PM our region will be under a High Wind Warning calling for gusts of 65mph in the mountains. There will also be a chance for some rain showers these next few days. All that combined will make playtime in the woods a bit sloppy, so best we get out of the cabin and bask in the sunshine this morning while we have it!

​Have a great day celebrating love!