How much? What will it be? and When will it start?

Questions surrounding the predicted weekend snowstorm for western NC that we’re all asking!

Area forecasters are currently saying it will be more of a snow sleet mixture for those of us living in the Catawba Valley region.

Precipitation is slated to begin after sunset Saturday, or possibly early Sunday morning lingering into Monday evening.

Differing opinions on ‘how much’ vary from 10 to 24 inches.

Heavy wet snow may mean widespread power outages.

Local electrical officials are checking supplies and equipment, and if needed are ready to call in crews from out-of-state.

Residents are urged to be prepared with an emergency kit on hand, with non-perishable foods.

Make sure cellphones are charged.

Other items to include in an emergency kit-

Water, blankets, a change of clothes, batteries, hygiene items, a battery-powered weather radio, medications, and pet supplies.

The Red Cross recommends people have an emergency kit in their home and one in their vehicle; and enough supplies to last for at least three days.

If weather conditions worsen, area county emergency managers will direct health officials and those with the Red Cross to open shelters.

A fire Thursday morning in the Oak Hill community of Burke destroyed a home and claimed the life of a pet.

Just before 10 firefighters rushed to the scene off Kinglet Drive, where reports say the home was fully engulfed by flames.

The homeowner wasn’t there at the time; however, a dog was killed in the fire.

The cause of the fire has not been determined pending an investigation.

Oak Hill, Lake James, and Glen Alpine fire departments worked the fire scene, with assistance from the Burke County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Burke EMS.

 McDowell County deputies are calling upon the public to help locate a suspect who allegedly stole property from a home while he was working there.

28-year-old Bryan Alan Kelly of Marion is wanted for larceny and larceny of a firearm.

A news release states Kelly was with a group of people doing construction work at a home on Overlook Drive in early and mid-November.

The homeowner noticed jewelry and money missing from her home.

An investigation by authorities led to Kelly.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts should call the McDowell Sheriff’s Office at 652-2237 or McDowell Crimestoppers at 65-CRIME.

With Crimestoppers, your identity remains anonymous, and you could receive a cash reward.