Arctic blast arrives across the Charlotte area with freeze warnings and NC mountain snow

CHARLOTTE (PINPOINT WEATHER) — After a mild weekend, temperatures have plunged to start the new week. Monday’s highs are only in the 40s across much of the Piedmont, while mountain areas are stuck in the 20s with ongoing snow showers.

Freeze Warnings are in effect tonight through early Tuesday for nearly all of central and western North Carolina, including Charlotte, Gaston, Union, and surrounding counties, as well as parts of upstate South Carolina and northeast Georgia.

Overnight lows are expected to dip into the 20s, with wind chills in the teens.

Gardeners should bring plants inside, and homeowners are urged to protect outdoor plumbing and irrigation systems before the freeze sets in.

Up in the mountains, Winter Weather Advisories remain active for Ashe, Watauga, and Avery Counties until 7 a.m. Tuesday. Snow totals are generally around 1-3 inches, but higher elevations could see 3-6 inches or more, especially along the western slopes and toward the Smokies. Roads may be slick, and gusty winds up to 45 mph could bring down small branches.

A few stray flurries could drift into the Piedmont late tonight, yes, even in Charlotte, but don’t expect anything to stick.

Veterans Day will stay chilly but bright, with highs in the 40s and 50s and plenty of sunshine for outdoor ceremonies.

Warmer, more seasonable weather returns by midweek. Expect 60s by Wednesday and possibly some low 70s by the weekend, along with dry conditions through Sunday.