Eastern Virginia, Northeast North Carolina, and the Maryland Eastern Shore – A Winter Storm Watch is in effect across large portions of eastern Virginia, northeast North Carolina, and the Maryland Eastern Shore, with heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions possible from late Friday night through Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, snow accumulations of 8 to 15 inches are possible across parts of northeast North Carolina and coastal southeast Virginia, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, and the Outer Banks-adjacent counties. Along the coast, wind gusts could reach 50 to 60 mph, raising the risk of whiteout conditions and making travel potentially life-threatening.
Across central, east-central, and south-central Virginia, including the Richmond metro area, snowfall totals of 3 to 7 inches are possible, with wind gusts up to 35 mph. Travel in these areas could become very difficult as snow accumulates on roadways.
On the Maryland Eastern Shore, including Somerset County, Inland Worcester County, and the Maryland beaches, as well as Accomack County, Virginia, snowfall totals of 3 to 5 inches are possible from Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon. Wind gusts in these areas could reach 45 to 55 mph, increasing the potential for tree damage.
The National Weather Service warns that snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and strong winds may significantly disrupt travel across the region throughout the weekend. Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates closely and prepare for hazardous winter conditions.
