Georgia and North Carolina Face Sunday Snow Threat as Winter Storm Warnings Expand Across the Southeast

UNITED STATES — Confidence is increasing that a rare January snow event will impact parts of the Southeast on Sunday, January 18, with central and southern Georgia and eastern North Carolina facing accumulating snow, slick roads, and travel disruptions, according to updated National Weather Service guidance and model data released Saturday afternoon.

This is not a classic winter storm, but forecasters stress that even light snow in this region can cause outsized impacts, especially during the morning hours when temperatures are marginally cold enough to support accumulation.

Snow Expected to Develop Sunday Morning

Forecast guidance shows precipitation developing late Saturday night, transitioning from rain to wet snow Sunday morning, and tapering off from west to east by late afternoon or early evening.

Temperatures are expected to remain just above freezing for much of the day, limiting totals in many areas, but colder air filtering in behind the system could allow snow to briefly accumulate on grassy surfaces, elevated roads, bridges, and untreated pavement.

Central Georgia Under Winter Storm Warning

The National Weather Service in Atlanta has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of central Georgia, including areas along and near Interstates 75 and 16.

• Snow totals of 1 to 3 inches are possible in warning areas
• Surrounding advisory zones could see up to 1 inch
• The heaviest snow potential centers near Macon and surrounding counties

Forecasters emphasize that Sunday morning travel could be hazardous, particularly before midday improvements.

North Carolina: Light Snow With Localized Higher Totals

Across central and eastern North Carolina, snowfall amounts are expected to be lower overall, but still impactful for the region.

• General totals range from a dusting to 0.5 inches
• Isolated spots could approach 1 inch in a higher-end scenario
• The best chance for measurable snow lies east of I-85 and closer to I-95

Most locations will see little to no accumulation, but brief bursts of snow could still reduce visibility and create slick spots.

Probability Data Supports Low-End but Widespread Snow

Snowfall probability maps show:

• 60–80% chance of at least a trace (0.1″) in much of central NC
• 20–35% chance of reaching 1 inch in select areas
• Higher-end totals remain unlikely, but not impossible

The most likely outcome remains light, wet snow rather than a disruptive winter storm.

Timing and Impacts Matter More Than Totals

Even small accumulations can create problems in the Southeast due to:

• Limited road treatment
• Snow falling during peak travel hours
• Rapid temperature drops Sunday night

As skies clear Sunday evening, wet surfaces may refreeze, leading to patchy black ice late Sunday night into early Monday, especially on bridges and elevated roads.

Bottom Line

This is a low- to moderate-impact winter setup, but one that deserves attention.

• Expect rain changing to snow Sunday morning
• Most areas see little accumulation, but central Georgia could see 1–3 inches
• Travel impacts are most likely Sunday morning
• Refreezing is possible Sunday night

Enjoy the flakes if you see them — but plan ahead, slow down on the roads, and stay weather-aware as conditions evolve.

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