NORTH CAROLINA — While North Carolina is better known for mild winters, measurable snowfall is possible in the state during January based on long-term weather records.
Historical data from the National Weather Service shows that January is typically the coldest month of the year in North Carolina, making it the most likely time for snow when winter storms move through the region. Snowfall has occurred in January across much of the state, from the mountains to parts of the Piedmont and even portions of the Coastal Plain, though frequency and amounts vary widely by location.
The North Carolina mountains experience snowfall every winter, with January often producing multiple snow events due to colder temperatures and frequent passing storm systems. In higher elevations, snow accumulation in January is common and can range from light dustings to several inches during stronger systems.
In the Piedmont, including cities such as Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Raleigh, January snow is less frequent but not unusual. Historical records show that measurable snow has occurred many times in January when cold air is in place and moisture moves in from the Gulf of Mexico or along the East Coast.
Even eastern North Carolina has recorded January snowfall in past decades. Although coastal areas are less likely to see accumulation, cold air combined with coastal storm systems has occasionally produced measurable snow or mixed winter precipitation.
Climatologists note that while many Januarys pass without snow in parts of the state, the month consistently ranks as the most likely period for winter precipitation to accumulate. Variations in temperature, storm track, and available moisture determine whether snow reaches the ground and sticks.
Overall, historical weather data confirms that measurable snowfall in North Carolina during January is possible, even if it does not occur every year or in every location.
