Winter Storm Warning

The National Weather Service forecasts a significant winter storm for the immediate area Saturday and Sunday.  Snow and ice accumulation is expected across the Cherokee National Forest. 

Visitors should anticipate:
Freezing temperatures and wind chills 
Icy roads particularly on bridges, and shaded curves
Falling trees and downed limbs
Possible power outages and blocked access routes
Limited or delayed emergency response due to conditions
Conditions can change quickly and may remain dangerous even after precipitation stops. 

Travel and Safety Impacts on the Forest 
Road conditions on and near the forest may be unsafe or impassable due to ice accumulation and debris. Even maintained routes can become hazardous, especially:

Higher elevations
North-facing slopes
Shaded roads and valleys
Low-water crossings and bridges
Gravel, dirt, and seasonal roads
Forest roads may not be treated or plowed. Some roads and facilities may close without notice for public safety.

Before You Consider Visiting

Visitors are urged to evaluate conditions carefully before traveling. If you do choose to travel to the forest, prepare for self-sufficient travel and the possibility you may not be able to safely return the same day. Do not rely on GPS alone. Many forest roads are not maintained for winter driving and may appear open while conditions are unsafe. Be prepared for self-rescue.

Recommended Preparations

Before traveling, make sure you have:
A full tank of fuel (and keep it above half at all times)
A fully charged phone and a backup battery pack
A vehicle appropriate for winter conditions (4WD/AWD recommended; chains may be needed in severe icing)
Warm clothing and winter gear, even for short trips insulated jacket, hat, gloves, waterproof boots
Food and water for at least 24 hours
Emergency supplies, including: blankets or sleeping bag, flashlight/headlamp, first aid kit, shovel, traction aid (sand/cat litter), ice scraper, tow strap (if trained to use it safely)
A paper map or offline map downloaded before leaving service range
A plan shared with someone, including where you’re going and when you expect to return
If you cannot safely stay overnight in your vehicle if needed, it is not a good time to travel to the forest.

If You Become Stuck or Stranded

If you find yourself stuck due to icy conditions, downed trees, or road hazards:

Stay with Your Vehicle- Leaving your vehicle in freezing conditions can be more dangerous than remaining sheltered.

Call for Help Early- If you are in immediate danger or need emergency assistance, call 911. Be aware that during ice storms, response times may be significantly delayed due to road conditions, high call volume, and limited access.

Conserve Battery and Fuel- Use your phone sparingly and keep it warm to preserve battery life. Run your vehicle intermittently for heat only if the exhaust pipe is clear. If snow/ice blocks the tailpipe, do not run the vehicle due to carbon monoxide risk

Make Yourself Visible - Turn on hazard lights if safe to do so. If possible, use bright clothing or a light source to increase visibility.

Watch for Falling Trees and Debris- Freezing conditions and high winds increase the risk of:

Tree failure
Limb drop
Downed powerlines
Blocked roads and trails
Avoid parking or walking under leaning trees or heavy canopy during storm conditions. If you encounter a downed powerline, do not approach it. Move away and report it to local authorities.

Public Services and Access
During winter storm conditions, some services may not be available, including:
Limited access to facilities and trailheads
Reduced staffing and delayed updates
Road obstructions that may take time to clear
Visitors should be prepared for little to no on-site assistance.
Get Updates Before You Travel
Latest conditions and official updates

Winter weather conditions can make travel on the forest unpredictable and dangerous, even for experienced visitors. Those planning to visit should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, limited services, and delayed response capability.