Snow is piling up in Western North Carolina and it’s a welcome sight for some people.

“Excited,” said Alaska native Jarett Gates when asked of his initial reaction to seeing a forecast for snow. “Excited because – love the snow.”

He and Caroline Easley were just a couple of people out and about in downtown Hendersonville Saturday. 

“I grew up in Mississippi so I have a big appreciation for the snow because I didn’t get it growing up,” Easley said. “It’s still beautiful and Main Street looks amazing with the Christmas decoration and stuff.”

It’s an experience others can relate to, as we caught up with a native of the Philippines, who was out welcoming the wintry views up close. 

“t would be a miracle if you have snow in the Philippines,” said Marivic. “Just enjoying the snow, enjoying the weather.”

Henderson County was under a state of emergency as of 6:00 p.m. Saturday.

“We encourage residents to stay inside, and limit any non-essential travel.  Emergency Services and law enforcement personnel, along with state and municipal road crews, are bearing a heavy burden keeping up with public safety demands, and keeping the roads as clear as possible helps put them in the best possible position to reach our neighbors who need their assistance”, said County Manager Wyatt.

Snow plows worked throughout Saturday clearing snow from sidewalks to streets. 

“It does feel good to see that our money is working for us. Yea, it’s important that they clear the roads,” said Gates. 

NCDOT officials tell 7 News they want people to give trucks on the road enough room as they try to do their jobs at a safe speed.