Cold temperatures and possible snow accumulation is forecast for the Outer Banks next week

Confidence is high that the Outer Banks will see abnormally cold temperatures next week, along with a 50% chance of more than 2 inches of snow, according to a Friday afternoon update from the National Weather Service (NWS) Newport/Morehead City Office.

Cold weather will impact Hatteras Ocracoke Islands throughout the week, and especially Tuesday through Thursday, where low temperatures are expected to be below freezing.

Snow is most likely along the Outer Banks from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday, January 21-22. Snow accumulation may last for several days due to the lingering cold temperatures, resulting in slippery roads and dangerous travel conditions.

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.

The public is also advised to keep pets indoors as much as possible and to dress appropriately, as extreme cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

Additional updates from the NWS are expected over the next few days.

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.