Newport, NC – Drivers across eastern North Carolina are facing dangerous travel conditions Sunday after a historic snowstorm dumped more than a foot of snow across Carteret, Craven, and Jones counties, snarling traffic along major roadways including US-70 and NC-24.
According to the National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City, snowfall totals over the past 24 hours reached levels not seen in decades. Newport recorded 15.2 inches, while nearby communities reported even higher amounts, making this one of the most significant snow events in the region since December 1989 or March 1980.
James City reported the highest total at 18 inches, followed by Swansboro with 17 inches, Trenton with 16.5 inches, and Cedar Point with 16 inches. Snowfall totals of 14 inches or more were also reported in Kinston and Jacksonville, while Greenville measured 12 inches. Southern Shores recorded 11 inches, and Frisco reported 2 inches.
Road crews across Carteret and Craven counties worked through the night to clear primary routes, but officials warn that many secondary roads remain snow-covered and icy. Portions of US-70, a critical east-west corridor connecting Morehead City to inland North Carolina, remain slow-going, with multiple spin-outs reported Sunday morning. Travel along NC-24, which links Jacksonville to coastal communities, has also been impacted by drifting snow and reduced visibility.
The National Weather Service urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially during the early afternoon hours Sunday, as melting snow refreezes on untreated roads. Residents are also encouraged to report snowfall totals through the CoCoRaHS network to assist meteorologists with storm verification.
Additional updates are expected as conditions evolve.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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