ASHEBORO N.C. — Conservative estimates from forecasters went out the window overnight as residents of Randolph County woke up to more than just flurries and a wintery mix.
Overnight heavy rains and high winds downed trees and knocked out power. While the snow continues to fall, rain and high winds are the primary concern today. A Wind Advisory remains in effect for Randolph County until 4 p.m. Monday. Strong winds will with gusts up to 45 miles per hour are expected to knock down trees and create hazardous driving conditions. Officials are urging people to stay home when possible and drivers are urged to use caution due to trees and power-lines are down across all of Randolph County.
The National Weather Service says snow is expected to taper off in the Triad between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Watches and Warnings
UPDATE 4 P.M. – All advisories have been allowed to expire by the National Weather Service
WIND ADVISORY [EXPIRED]
Northerly winds 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph are expected through 4 PM EST Monday. Significant rainfall last night, combined with these strong winds, may cause some trees to uproot.
Hazardous Weather Outlook
In addition, rain is expected to change over to a rain and snow mix or wet snow for a time late this morning and this afternoon. A light coating of snow on elevated and grassy surfaces is possible.
However, due to the recent warm conditions, no significant accumulation is expected on pavement. Residual slush, runoff, and moisture on roadways may freeze overnight resulting in icy patches and black ice overnight and on Tuesday morning.
Power Outages
Randolph County is reporting 8,942 power outages as of 11:30 a.m., Duke Energy is saying that currently their average restoration time is around 3 hours.
UPDATE 5 P.M. – NC Dept of Public Safety is currently reporting 5,502 outages in Randolph County.
How To Report a Power Outage
Duke Energy – 800-769-3766
Randolph EMC – 877-736-2633
Roads Closed / Incidents
UPDATE 4 P.M. – Crews have been working to clear blocked roads. 911 is still receiving calls about downed trees. With so many roads closing and re-opening the best way to see the current road closures is on our Road Closures / Incidents Page
Closing & Delays
Randolph County Schools In a statement said that “Due to strong winds, power outages, and downed trees throughout the county, all schools in the Randolph County School System will be closed today (Jan 3rd 2022).”
Asheboro City Schools says that there are no closings or delays as of 11:45 a.m.
StarMed has also announced a delay in the opening of their COVID-19 testing sites.
CURRENT CLOSINGS / DELAYS | REPORT A CLOSING / DELAY
Photos
Snow falls in Asheboro on the morning of Mondaty January 3rd 2022. 
Snow falls in Asheboro on the morning of Mondaty January 3rd 2022.