Forecasters say a winter storm is ready to drop heavy rain across North Carolina, but temperatures are high enough to avoid sleet or snow.
The system is sweeping through the mountains, Charlotte and the Triad, and will move east throughout the day on Tuesday. Meteorologist Ryan Ellis says the steady rain will start with the morning commute.
"It definitely is going to be a heavy-rain event and a long-duration event," Ellis says.
"In fact, there's a second low merging with the first one so we can expect rain to continue will into Wednesday, and by the time it's done, a widespread couple of inches is possible."
The system was expected to bring ice and snow to the mountains overnight. A freezing rain advisory is in effect for ten counties in western North Carolina. Classes have been delayed for two hours in Orange and Person County schools.