Raleigh, North Carolina — Central North Carolina is facing bitter cold and significant snowfall today as a Winter Storm Warning and Extreme Cold Warning remain in effect, according to the National Weather Service in Raleigh. The combination of accumulating snow and dangerously low wind chills is expected to create hazardous conditions across the region through Sunday morning.
Forecasters report that snow accumulations of 3 to 10 inches are expected across central North Carolina, with the highest totals likely along and east of the Interstate 95 corridor. Cities including Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville, Rocky Mount, Wilson, and Goldsboro are expected to see impactful snowfall, with rates occasionally heavy enough to significantly reduce visibility.
Temperatures today are forecast to only reach the low to mid-20s, before dropping into the low teens and single digits tonight. As winds increase, wind chill values are expected to plunge to as low as -5°F by early Sunday morning, posing a serious risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone outdoors.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, especially on Interstate 95, Interstate 40, Interstate 85, U.S. Route 64, and U.S. Route 70. Bridges and overpasses are expected to become slick first, and travel may become difficult to impossible at times, particularly during periods of heavier snow.
Emergency officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare for possible delays, and ensure vehicles are equipped with winter emergency supplies. Power outages are possible where snow accumulates on infrastructure, especially combined with gusty winds.
Residents should dress in multiple layers, limit time outdoors, and bring pets indoors. Those using alternative heating sources are reminded to use them safely to avoid fire or carbon monoxide risks.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Sunday, but lingering cold will remain into early next week. Continued updates should be monitored closely as this high-impact winter event unfolds.
