March 19, 2021

Good Morning,

We know better than to think winter was over up here, and one can always count on March to be that not-so-subtle reminder. After another 1.5” of rainfall (and some hail) yesterday, temps began to plummet after sunset. We got well into the 20s, and in the middle of the night our precip transitioned over from rain to ice then snow. Total accumulation is about an inch, but it has coated everything and will surely create innumerable slick places. It’s possible we’ll get above the freezing mark today, but not by much if we do.

US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) is currently open, so it’s likely that the iciest spots have been relegated to the higher elevations. Please use caution and consider traction devices for traversing the mountain today and probably tomorrow until the sunshine works its magic. Conditions up top should remain cloudy until late this evening when skies will clear, with lingering light snow or mist possible. The weekend is forecast to be sunny and beautiful, and with spring breaks ramping up it could be a busy time in the Smokies.

​Have a great day.