Snowfall projections continue upward trend, Winter Storm Warning issued for the Outer Banks

Click here for the most recent Tuesday afternoon update from the National Weather Service

Snowfall projections continue to trend upward as of Tuesday morning, with 4-6 inches or more expected for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, according to the latest update from the National Weather Service (NWS).

“There is high confidence that we will see accumulating snow across all of Eastern N.C. starting after sunset tonight and lasting through tomorrow morning,” stated the NWS on Tuesday. “Blowing and drifting snow is expected, and brief blizzard conditions are also possible, especially along the Outer Banks.

“Confidence remains high that extremely cold weather will last through Thursday… Any snow that melts during the daytime will refreeze into black ice at night, prolonging hazardous travel conditions.”

Slippery roads and dangerous travel conditions should be expected through Thursday. Crews from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) were pretreating roads and bridges on Monday in advance of the precipitation’s arrival, and more preparation work is planned for Tuesday as well.

Abnormally cold temperatures will linger through Thursday, with actual low temperatures of 20-30 degrees along the Outer Banks, and wind chills in the teens.

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the Outer Banks starting at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, and a Cold Weather Advisory is also in effect through Wednesday at 10 a.m.

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, as demand for electric power, (namely heat), may surge. However, Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative (CHEC) stated in an email to the Island Free Press on Tuesday that they were prepared for the adverse weather.

“CHEC is closely monitoring weather conditions and is prepared to respond quickly should the approaching winter weather result in power outages. Conditions like snow, ice or a wintry mix can lead to power outages, caused primarily by falling trees and branches contacting power lines,” said Laura Ertle, Director of Public Relations & Marketing for CHEC. “Our top priority is serving our members. If the storm causes power outages, we will do everything we can to minimize disruption of service while keeping members informed and safe. Our crews and equipment are prepped and ready to go should the weather cause power outages. We encourage members to report any outages by calling 866-511-9862.”

“Take the time now to get ready,” said Drew Pearson, Dare County Emergency Management Director 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.”

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

• For additional snow maps, visit https://www.weather.gov/mhx/winter.
• For information on the local forecast, visit www.weather.gov/moreheadcity/ 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.