Wilmington, North Carolina – A significant winter storm is poised to bring widespread snow and major travel disruptions across southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina beginning early Saturday and lasting into Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, a Winter Storm Warning is now in effect from early Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon for coastal and inland portions of the Carolinas. Snowfall totals between 5 and 8 inches are expected across much of the region, with locally higher amounts possible. Snow is expected to develop before daybreak Saturday and intensify through the day, quickly covering roadways.
In North Carolina, the warning includes Wilmington, Leland, Southport, Lumberton, Whiteville, Elizabethtown, Burgaw, and surrounding coastal and inland communities. Across South Carolina, impacts extend through Florence, Marion, Dillon, Darlington, Georgetown, Conway, and the Myrtle Beach area. With temperatures remaining cold, snow will stick efficiently, especially on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads.
Travel is expected to become very difficult, particularly Saturday into early Sunday, with conditions slow to improve even after snowfall tapers. Major routes such as I-40, U.S. 17, U.S. 74, and I-95 could see prolonged hazardous conditions.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, complete preparations before snowfall begins, and keep emergency supplies on hand. The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Sunday afternoon, with lingering impacts expected beyond that timeframe.
