After some brief downpours mid-afternoon, we've seen close to an inch of rain fall. Wind gusts are still prevalent, and even at 39 degrees, the wet and the wind can make things feel much colder than a thermometer could lead on, especially without the use of warm layers and protective waterproof shells. The NWS has issued a special weather statement speaking more specifically to the threat of ice/snow tonight and into tomorrow. Late tonight, at elevations above 3,000 feet in the mountains, is when the greatest chance of wintry mix will occur, with precipitation tugging back and forth between rain, freezing rain, and snow showers. Atop places like Mt. LeConte, we could still witness an accumulation of snow, but nothing more than a couple inches according to recent reports.
We'll keep you posted. Safe travels to all.
More updates to come as conditions change. Have a great Saturday.
We're currently under a High Wind Warning, which has been howling over the mountain all night and will persist through late this morning. Hazards associated with these winds would include dead or weakened trees liable to fall. The rain showers have been light and scattered thus far, only accounting for 0.05" of rain, but looking at the radar shows the heaviest precipitation on its way. Showers should last all day before transitioning over to snow sometime late tonight. Our current temperature is 36 degrees and is expected to fall as the weather event pushes on. US 441 is still open to traffic through the park. Yesterday's high temp came in at 53 degrees, followed by a low of 35.
Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day.