ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Forecasters are warning of a potentially high-impact winter storm expected to affect Western North Carolina this weekend, bringing a dangerous mix of snow, sleet and ice, along with bitter cold that could linger into next week.

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg said light rain is possible Thursday, mainly west of Interstate 26, but attention is focused on a Winter Storm Watch in effect from Saturday morning through Monday afternoon for much of WNC, northeast Georgia and Upstate South Carolina.

Forecasters said recent model updates show higher snow chances shifting north of Interstate 40, while the threat of ice and sleet has increased for the Asheville area and surrounding mountains. Heavy mixed precipitation is expected to create hazardous travel conditions and could lead to widespread power outages lasting several days.

Forecaster say each new model run is adding confidence in a high-impact, long-duration ice event, particularly across WNC and areas farther south into Georgia and South Carolina. Impacts could begin as early as midday Saturday and persist through Sunday.

The weather service said temperatures will remain cold after wintry precipitation ends early Monday, with dangerously low wind chills possible Monday night into Tuesday morning. Officials warned that hypothermia or frostbite could occur if proper precautions are not taken. Icy and treacherous road conditions may persist into early next week.

Asheville Fire Department officials urged residents to prepare for extreme cold, advising people to dress in warm layers, cover exposed skin, limit time outdoors and stay dry to prevent cold-related injuries.

North Carolina Emergency Management encouraged residents to prepare now for potential power outages by charging electronic devices, locating flashlights and stocking up on nonperishable food that does not require refrigeration or cooking.

Emergency officials also cautioned against using generators or grills indoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and advised residents to check smoke alarms and consider battery-operated weather radios. Authorities urged people to check on elderly neighbors and those with medical needs, who are especially vulnerable during prolonged outages.

Forecasters said conditions and impacts could change as the storm system evolves and urged residents to continue monitoring forecasts and official alerts.