Morehead City, North Carolina – Drivers along the Crystal Coast may need to prepare for changing road conditions later this weekend as a large storm system approaches the Southeast and begins interacting with an Arctic air mass. While details are still coming into focus, even minor winter impacts could create travel issues across eastern North Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City, confidence is increasing that portions of the Carolinas could see winter weather impacts as the system moves in this weekend. The setup includes cold air pressing south while moisture spreads across the region, a combination that can lead to snow, sleet, or freezing rain in parts of eastern North Carolina.
In Carteret County and nearby coastal communities, bridges, overpasses, and less-traveled roads would be the first to become slick if temperatures dip low enough. Routes such as U.S. 70 and NC-24 could be affected, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. Emergency managers are encouraging residents to begin planning now, review travel needs, and monitor updates closely throughout the week.
Officials stress that timing and impacts may change as the system develops. Additional advisories or winter weather alerts are possible as confidence increases closer to the weekend.
