Late-November Chill Could Bring First Flakes to Appalachian High Country

A fresh outlook from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, issued October 24, 2025, keeps much of the southern and central Appalachians warmer and comparatively dry through early November. The region—covering North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and eastern Tennessee—should hold onto mild days at first, but forecasters are watching a colder push out of the Midwest that may slide in later this month.

If that colder air overlaps lingering mountain moisture, higher elevations could see a light snow or wintry mix between November 18 and 25. The Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains, and West Virginia’s tallest ridges are the most likely to catch a brief coating, which could be enough to create slick spots and slow holiday travel on winding mountain roads.

Down in the valleys and foothills, cities such as Knoxville, Roanoke, and Asheville are expected to stay in the rain column during this stretch. Even so, NOAA notes that late fall can flip the script fast. A strong cold front during Thanksgiving week may be all it takes to tip conditions toward the season’s first flakes across the peaks.

For those planning early holiday trips, keep a close eye on updated forecasts, check mountain road conditions before you go, and allow extra time on higher routes. While this is not a guarantee of widespread snow, it’s a scenario worth watching as November closes in on winter.