Charlotte Braces for Potential Snowstorm

NWS Issues Winter Storm Watch with Travel Warnings and Power Outage Risks

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:23am

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The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Charlotte, North Carolina and surrounding regions, signaling the possibility of heavy snow and strong winds from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. Travel disruptions and power outages are expected as a result.

Why it matters

The impending winter storm could significantly impact travel and infrastructure in the Charlotte area, requiring residents to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions and disruptions to normal routines.

The details

According to the NWS, the snow, combined with gusts ranging between 25 to 35 mph, will likely render "many roads impassable" and could "produce scattered power outages due to the weight of the snow on tree limbs and power lines." The affected areas extend beyond Charlotte to include northeast Georgia, western North Carolina, and Upstate South Carolina, with possible total snow accumulations ranging between 4 to 7 inches east of I-26, and between 2 to 4 inches elsewhere in the watch area.

  • The Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning.
  • Snow accumulation between 1 to 2 inches is possible Friday night.
  • The chance of precipitation jumps to 90% on Saturday, with the high estimated to hover near 27 degrees.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS)

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts, and warnings for the United States.

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What’s next

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and prepare for potential winter conditions, including the possibility of disrupted travel and power outages.

The takeaway

The impending winter storm in Charlotte highlights the importance of being prepared for severe weather events and the potential impact they can have on daily life. Residents should heed the warnings from the National Weather Service and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.