Carolinas Brace for Weekend Snowstorm

WBTV First Alert Weather team provides live coverage of the winter weather event

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:15am

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A major snowstorm is expected to hit the Carolinas on Saturday, January 31, 2026, bringing heavy, powdery snow and hazardous travel conditions. WBTV's First Alert Weather team is providing live coverage throughout the day, tracking the storm's progress and the dangerously cold temperatures that will follow on Sunday.

Why it matters

This winter storm has the potential to significantly impact the Carolinas, with heavy snowfall, strong winds, and frigid temperatures that could result in dangerous conditions for residents. The live coverage from WBTV's weather experts will help keep the community informed and prepared for the evolving weather situation.

The details

The snowstorm is being driven by an unusually deep upper-level low system moving across Georgia and South Carolina. This will keep the Carolinas firmly in sub-freezing air, leading to light, fluffy snow with a high snow-to-liquid ratio of around 15-to-1. Despite the lower moisture content, the powdery nature of the snow is expected to result in significant accumulation. Wind gusts near 30 mph will also create blowing and drifting of the snow, further exacerbating travel conditions throughout the day and into Saturday night.

  • Snow showers began in mountain communities early Saturday morning, January 31, 2026.
  • Widespread snow is expected to spread across the entire viewing area through the morning on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • The snowstorm is forecast to wrap up by Saturday evening, January 31, 2026.
  • Dangerously cold conditions with wind chills in the single digits and near or below zero are expected on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

The players

WBTV

A local television station in Charlotte, North Carolina, providing live coverage of the winter weather event.

Eric Garlick

A First Alert meteorologist at WBTV, providing weather forecasts and updates on the snowstorm.

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What they’re saying

“Even though the moisture content is lower, we'll still see significant accumulation because the snow is so light and fluffy.”

— Eric Garlick, First Alert Meteorologist

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This winter storm highlights the importance of being prepared for severe weather events in the Carolinas, with residents encouraged to have emergency supplies on hand and to avoid unnecessary travel during the hazardous conditions.