Snowpack conditions in North Carolina vary across the state's mountain ranges, with the highest peaks in the Appalachian Mountains receiving the most snowfall. The Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains are the primary ranges that provide snow for the state. The snowmelt from these ranges feeds into several rivers, including the French Broad, Catawba, Yadkin, and Neuse.

North Carolina experiences a humid subtropical climate, meaning winters are generally mild, but cold air masses from the northwest can bring significant snowfall to the mountains. The average snowfall in the high elevations ranges from 60 to 80 inches per year. Snowmelt from these mountains is critical for maintaining water supply and healthy ecosystems in downstream watersheds.

An interesting fact about snow science in North Carolina is the role of "snowpack telemetry." Scientists use automated weather stations to monitor snow depth, temperature, and water content, allowing for better understanding of snow accumulation and melt patterns.

Historically, North Carolina has experienced memorable snowstorms, such as the "Blizzard of 1993," which dumped several feet of snow across the state and is considered one of the most significant snow events in recent history.