Confidence increasing that the Outer Banks will see accumulating snow, freezing temperatures next week

Confidence continues to increase that the Outer Banks will see accumulating snow starting late Tuesday into Wednesday, along with extremely cold weather starting on Monday, according to an update from the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City Office.

Currently, Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands have a 65-70% chance of more than 2 inches of snow, with snowfall beginning on Tuesday afternoon or evening and continuing through Wednesday.

Some freezing rain or sleet may also occur, and snow and ice accumulation may last for several days due to the lingering cold temperatures, resulting in slippery roads and dangerous travel conditions.

A second icing event is possible starting on Thursday.

Extremely cold temperatures are also forecast beginning on Monday and continuing through Thursday, with actual low temperatures of 20-30 degrees along the Outer Banks, and wind chills in the teens.

Prolonged cold temperatures may cause issues with frozen pipes, and residents should take steps to prevent freezing and possible bursting of water pipes by wrapping, draining, or allowing pipes to drip slowly.

“Take some time over the weekend to get ready at home and for the upcoming work week,” said Drew Pearson, Dare County Emergency Management Director in a Friday update. “If you have pipes that freeze, take action to protect them. Make sure your disaster kit has the supplies you need should conditions keep you at home. Find the snow shovels, ice scrapers, blankets, winter coats, hats. and gloves now.

“If you plan to travel, make sure your vehicle is up for the task and take your winter survival stuff with you. If you have backup generators, make sure you have fuel on hand and that they are ready to run. As temperatures drop, only use approved heating sources. If you need to use space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves, make sure you use them properly. Take care of the pets and keep an eye on your neighbors who may need a hand.”

Further updates are expected over the next several days, and the NWS intends to post its first snowfall projection sometime late Sunday, or roughly 48 hours before the event starts.

A list of local Outer Banks resources for additional information is as follows:

• For information on the local forecast, visit weather.gov/mhx for general weather information, or the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.
• For updates regarding road conditions, visit DriveNC.gov and follow the North Carolina Department of Transportation and NCDOT NC 12 on Facebook. The Dare County Sheriff’s Office also shares local road condition updates on its Facebook page.
• To get notified of ferry delays or cancellations, sign up for text and/or email alerts via the N.C. Ferry System’s FINS system: www.ncdot.gov/fins.