Brutal cold will linger for most of the week, likelihood of accumulating snow decreases
While probabilities for heavy snowfall have trended downward in the past 24 hours, confidence is increasing that light snow will impact parts of the Outer Banks mid-week, according to a Sunday morning update from the National Weather Service (NWS).
Currently, Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands have a 34-44% chance of more than 2 inches of snow, with snowfall beginning on Tuesday night and continuing through Wednesday morning.
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.
Brutally cold temperatures are expected for most of the week starting on Monday and continuing through Thursday, with actual low temperatures of 20-30 degrees along the Outer Banks, and wind chills in the teens.
Multiple and consecutive days of 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.
Power outages are also a possibility, according to Drew Pearson, Dare County Emergency Management Director, as demand for electric power, (namely heat), may surge.
“Take some time over the weekend to get ready at home and for the upcoming work week,” said Pearson in a recent 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.”
Snowfall projections from the NWS are expected later on Sunday, as more details on the local forecast become available.
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.
