New Bern, North Carolina – Drivers across eastern and coastal North Carolina are facing dangerous travel conditions early Sunday as heavy snow and strong winds continue to batter the region, creating whiteout conditions and widespread road hazards.
According to the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City, Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect through noon for much of eastern North Carolina, with coastal and Outer Banks communities under warnings until late Sunday afternoon. Additional snowfall of 1 to 4 inches is expected, with higher totals possible in bands of heavier snow. Wind gusts are reaching 45 to 60 mph, especially near the coast.
Statewide impacts are significant, with Duplin, Onslow, Craven, Pitt, Beaufort, Lenoir, Greene, Martin, Pamlico, and Carteret counties reporting snow-covered roads and rapidly changing visibility. In cities including Jacksonville, New Bern, Greenville, Kinston, Washington, and Morehead City, blowing snow is reducing visibility to near zero at times. Along the Outer Banks, including Hatteras, Ocracoke, Nags Head, and Kill Devil Hills, strong winds are intensifying drifting snow and increasing the risk of tree damage.
Emergency managers urge residents to delay all non-essential travel. If travel cannot be avoided, motorists should carry emergency supplies and check road conditions through NCDOT by calling 511. Warnings remain in effect through Sunday afternoon, and additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen.
