Snowfall projections increase in Monday afternoon update from NWS, Winter Storm Watch issued for the OBX

Snowfall projections jumped to 4-6 inches for Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands in the latest update from the National Weather Service (NWS), which was issued on Monday afternoon, January 20.

“Forecast confidence remains high that we will see accumulating snow [for] all of Eastern N.C. on Tuesday evening into early Wednesday morning,” stated the NWS on Monday. “Snowfall amounts have been increased, especially along and east of Highway 17, and toward the coast. This is an extremely challenging forecast and we may have a sharp gradient of locally higher amounts across our area. Future adjustments may still be made, so please check back for an update Tuesday morning.”

Snow and/or ice accumulation may last for several days due to the lingering cold temperatures. Slippery roads and dangerous travel conditions should be expected.

Extremely cold temperatures are also 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.

A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the Outer Banks starting at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, and a Cold Weather Advisory has also been issued starting at 10 p.m. on Monday night.

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 the time now to get ready,” said Pearson in a Sunday 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.