Tennessee and Virginia Mountains Face Another Snow Chance as Rain Changes to Snow Friday Night Into Saturday Morning
TENNESSEE — Another round of wintry weather is expected to impact the higher elevations of East Tennessee and southwest Virginia from Friday evening through Saturday morning, as a passing system brings rain that will transition to snow overnight, according to the latest forecast guidance.
While most lower-elevation communities across the region are expected to see rain or a brief rain–snow mix with little to no accumulation, forecasters say mountain areas stand the best chance for measurable snowfall, particularly along the Tennessee–Virginia border.
Where Snow Accumulation Is Most Likely
The highest confidence for accumulating snow is centered on the mountains of East Tennessee, where colder temperatures and elevation will allow precipitation to change fully to snow overnight.
Forecast highlights include:
- East Tennessee mountains seeing the best chance for accumulation
- Higher elevations of southwest Virginia potentially receiving 1 to 2 inches of snow
- Localized heavier totals along ridge tops and peaks
- Lower elevations mainly seeing rain or a brief mix with little accumulation
Snow amounts are expected to increase with elevation, meaning valleys may see little impact while nearby mountain roads become snow-covered.
Timeline: Rain to Snow Transition
Rain is expected to move into the region Friday afternoon and evening, then gradually mix with and change to snow overnight, especially after temperatures cool late Friday night.
Key timing details:
- Friday afternoon–evening: Rain develops
- Late Friday night: Rain transitions to snow in higher elevations
- Early Saturday morning: Snow tapers off from west to east
This timing raises concern for slick travel conditions during the overnight and early-morning hours, particularly in mountain passes.
Areas That Could See a Light Dusting
Outside of the mountains, forecasters note that a light dusting of snow is possible, though not guaranteed, across:
- Northeast Tennessee
- The Cumberland Plateau
- Lower elevations of southwest Virginia
In these areas, surface temperatures and limited snowfall rates should keep accumulations minimal, but brief slick spots cannot be ruled out, especially on bridges and untreated roads.
Potential Travel Impacts
The National Weather Service cautions that snow accumulation on roadways is possible in higher elevations, where colder temperatures will allow snow to stick more efficiently.
Drivers traveling through mountain areas should be prepared for:
- Snow-covered roads
- Reduced visibility at times
- Slower travel conditions overnight
- Rapidly changing conditions with elevation
Motorists are urged to slow down and use caution, particularly on winding mountain roads.
Bottom Line
Another light but impactful mountain snow event is expected for parts of East Tennessee and southwest Virginia, with rain changing to snow Friday night into Saturday morning. While most areas will avoid significant accumulation, higher elevations could see up to 1–2 inches of snow, creating localized travel concerns.
Are you traveling through the mountains this weekend, or expecting snow where you live? Share your local conditions and stay updated with the latest winter weather coverage from Waldron News.