Dare County provides information, guidance on Winter Storm Warning

The following update was posted by Dare County on Tuesday at noon, outlining information on the Winter Storm Warning issued for the Outer Banks. For more updates on the imminent winter weather, click here.

The National Weather Service at Newport/Morehead City, NC has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Dare County, which is in effect from 5 p.m. today (Tuesday, January 21, 2025) through 7 a.m. on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Residents and visitors are advised to prepare for hazardous conditions, including snow, ice and dangerously low temperatures.

The latest update from the National Weather Service indicates the potential for blowing and drifting snow, with accumulations of approximately 6 to 8 inches possible, and some areas potentially seeing higher amounts. Snowfall is expected to begin accumulating after sunset this evening. Combined with bitter cold temperatures, the storm is expected to create dangerous conditions throughout the area.

Dare County Emergency Management strongly urges everyone to take the following precautions to ensure safety during this period of severe winter weather:

• Limit Unnecessary Travel: Avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Hazardous road conditions, including icy and snow-covered roads, are expected. Road conditions will become slippery and hazardous beginning Tuesday evening and continuing into Wednesday morning. If you must travel, ensure your vehicle is in good condition and take a winter survival kit with you, including blankets, extra clothing, water and emergency supplies. For the latest road conditions, visit DriveNC.gov.
• Prepare for the Extreme Cold: Temperatures will fall below freezing and remain that way through Thursday, January 23, 2025, with wind chills making outdoor conditions dangerous without proper winter clothing. Ensure you have adequate heating, warm clothing and blankets to stay warm. If you must go outside, dress in layers and limit exposure to the cold. Be prepared for possible power outages by having flashlights, batteries and other essentials on hand.
• Practice Safe Heating Methods: If you have a backup generator, ensure that it is ready to run and that you have sufficient fuel on hand. As temperatures drop, only use approved heating sources to stay warm. If you plan to use space heaters, fireplaces or wood stoves, follow all safety guidelines to prevent fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep space heaters away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended, and make sure fireplaces and wood stoves are properly vented.
• Protect Your Pipes from Freezing: The combination of snow and extreme cold increases the risk of power outages and frozen pipes. Prevent pipe freezing by allowing faucets to drip, opening cabinet doors around plumbing and insulating any exposed pipes.
• Check on the Elderly and Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbors or those with medical conditions and ensure they have the resources they need to stay warm and safe throughout the storm. Those who may require assistance with preparations are encouraged to sign up for Dare County’s Special Medical Needs Registry. For more information and to sign up, visit DareNC.gov/SpecialNeeds.
• Bring in Outdoor Pets: Protect your outdoor pets by bringing them inside during the extreme cold. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause serious harm or even death. Ensure your furry friends have a warm, safe space with access to food as well as water that isn’t frozen from the elements.
• Stay Informed: For the most up-to-date weather information, visit the National Weather Service at Newport/Morehead City, N.C. at Weather.gov/mhx. For updated information regarding road conditions, follow the North Carolina Department of Transportation on Facebook at Facebook/ncdot, on X (formerly Twitter) @NCDOTNC12 or visit DriveNC.gov. Sign up to receive customized emergency alerts—including severe weather watches and warnings—at OBXAlerts.com.

Additional changes to the forecast are still possible as the storm continues to develop. Please monitor the latest updates from the National Weather Service by visiting Weather.gov/mhx or clicking the button below. Stay safe, stay warm, and please limit travel to emergencies only!