The New Year started with a dusting of snow across western North Carolina due to the same extensive system that produced showers and even a lightning show across NYC during the big ball drop!

This system had promised to bring more snow to slightly lower elevations, such as in Haywood County, where only a dusting occurred. Still, many were happy to welcome the snow in the mountainous terrain, where many enjoy their vacations skiing and snowboarding. In higher spots in the Blue Ridge mountains, snowfall was more noticeable.

The system underperformed because drier air was filtering in and not allowing the clouds to produce enough ice crystals to produce efficient precipitation. The day became less cloudy, and the winds diminished by the first evening of the year. Expect the winds to increase again tomorrow, with gusts up to 25 mph.

The Appalachian Mountains can expect a cold day today with highs around the mid-40s. There is the chance for a few snowflakes mixed in with rain on Friday, while another system could produce dangerous ice on Sunday and Monday, bringing hazardous travel conditions for those on the roads.