North Carolina – Cold wind slides in off the water this morning, rattling docks and cutting through coats along the Crystal Coast. The calm breaks soon. Winter weather is building offshore, and eastern North Carolina could see dangerous conditions before the weekend ends.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Friday night through Sunday afternoon. Heavy snow is possible, with totals between 8 and 12 inches in parts of eastern North Carolina. Wind gusts could reach 40 to 50 mph, creating blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect early today, with wind chills as low as the teens. Temperatures hover near freezing this morning, then climb into the mid-30s later today before colder air surges back in.
Rain may begin Friday night before changing to snow as colder air deepens. Snow intensity increases Saturday, with blustery conditions developing through the day. Roads along U.S. 70, U.S. 17, and low-lying coastal routes could become snow-covered and icy quickly. Travel may become very difficult or even impossible at times.
Saturday night appears to be the most hazardous period. Heavy snow combines with strong winds, producing near-whiteout conditions in spots. Tree limbs may come down, and scattered power outages are possible. Residents should prepare now, limit travel, and secure loose outdoor items.
Snow likely lingers into Sunday before tapering. Even after snowfall eases, bitter cold follows, keeping untreated roads slick into early next week.
Five-Day Outlook for Morehead City, North Carolina
Friday: Partly sunny, high near 42
Saturday: Snow likely, windy, high near 36
Sunday: Snow likely, blustery, high near 28
Monday: Sunny, colder, high near 34
Tuesday: Sunny, milder, high near 42
