Eastern North Carolina – A Winter Storm Watch is in effect across much of eastern North Carolina from late Friday night through Sunday afternoon, with heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions possible.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, snow accumulations of 8 to 12 inches are possible across portions of the eastern coastal plain, including Pitt, Greene, Lenoir, Duplin, Jones, Pamlico, Craven, Carteret, and Onslow counties. Wind gusts in these areas could reach 40 to 50 mph, increasing the risk of downed tree branches and power disruptions.
Farther east, including Washington, Tyrrell, Beaufort, Hyde, Dare counties and the northern Outer Banks, snowfall totals of 10 to 16 inches are possible, with coastal wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph. Travel in these areas could become very difficult to impossible, particularly as snowfall intensifies.
A separate Winter Storm Watch covers Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island, where 5 to 10 inches of snow are possible from Saturday evening through Sunday evening. Wind gusts on the Outer Banks could reach 65 mph, raising concerns for extensive tree damage and hazardous travel conditions.
The National Weather Service warns that snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and strong winds may significantly disrupt travel across eastern North Carolina throughout the weekend. Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates closely and prepare for rapidly changing winter conditions.
