Swath of South faces wintry mess: Snow, sleet, freezing rain

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (FOX 46 CHARLOTTE) - The big winter storm has already been impacting our area today with rain creeping in from the south. As temperatures drop overnight we will see everything from snow to sleet, freezing rain, and rain! Snowfall amounts will range significantly across the area with up to a foot or more in the Mountains and areas of higher elevation.

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for most of the region for the weekend through Monday afternoon.

Here's what we're thinking for potential snow/sleet accumulation:
-- 12"-18" for the Mountains, Foothills, Morganton, & Lenoir
-- 8"-12" across Lincolnton, Hickory, & Statesville
-- 4"- 8" near Uptown Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, & Shelby
-- 2"- 4" South Charlotte, near Rock Hill, Waxhaw, Weddington, & Monroe
-- A dusting to 2" throughout the rest of upstate SC, into Anson & Richmond Co.

Northern South Carolina counties will have more of a threat for icy accumulation and slick roads during the winter storm rather than snow, so be careful if driving around through Monday. Even further south and east, there is higher likelihood for cold rain.

The northern and western counties of our area will see more snow than ice, but the Charlotte metro area is expected to see a mix of both.

Road conditions will deteriorate quickly across the area as the winter storm pushes through, so take the necessary precautions to stay safe over the weekend and into the start of next week.

STAY WEATHER AWARE:
-- Snow, sleet, freezing rain, and rain for most places.
-- Plan now for difficult travel and power outages, mainly Sunday through Tuesday morning.
-- Keep checking in with the Neighborhood Storm Watch team for the latest!