Mountain schools closed, others delayed due to icy conditions

BLOWING ROCK, N.C. — Roads in the North Carolina Mountains were very slick again Monday morning after a light rain fell overnight, prompting school officials to close and delay schools in the area.

A Channel 9 crew tried to pull into a store in Blowing Rock, but got stuck on the icy conditions.

Residents of the high country told Channel 9 they took it extra slow Monday morning.

Channel 9 spoke to a pastor of a church who was out spreading salt in the parking lot which was a sheet of ice.

He said he would rather deal with several inches of snow, but said the key to getting around was to be cautious.  "Being safe, going slow … The town does a great job trying to keep the main roads, so you're OK as long as you take it easy," said Rick Lawler.

The icy conditions forced Avery and Watauga counties to close school Monday.  Several other districts delayed school by a couple hours.   For a complete list of all closings, click here.

Spotty ice could also be found in the foothills.

A massive surge of warmth is right around the corner.

Clouds will hold temperatures down to near 50 degrees Monday. There is a small chance for a couple of afternoon showers.

Tuesday is expected to be warmer at 67 degrees and Wednesday even warmer at 70 degrees.

A strong cold front will cross into the Carolinas during the day Wednesday, reaching the unusually warm and humid air.

The front could bring afternoon thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy rain.

WSOC