Wakefield, Virginia – A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for northeast North Carolina as heavy snow and strong winds are expected to create dangerous, potentially life-threatening travel conditions through Sunday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, 8 to 12 inches of snow are forecast across portions of northeast North Carolina, with locally higher amounts possible. Wind gusts up to 40 mph are expected to accompany the storm. The warning is in effect from 4 a.m. Saturday until 7 p.m. EST Sunday.
Counties under the warning include Northampton, Hertford, Gates, Bertie, Chowan, and Perquimans.
Forecasters warn that whiteout conditions are expected at times, significantly reducing visibility and making travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Snow-covered roads, drifting snow, and rapidly changing conditions could make emergency response difficult during the height of the storm.
The National Weather Service urges residents to delay all travel if possible. Those who must travel are advised to use extreme caution and carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, in case they become stranded. Current road conditions can be checked at DriveNC.gov.
Snowfall of this magnitude is rare for northeastern North Carolina and may overwhelm road treatment efforts, particularly during periods of strong wind and heavy snowfall rates. Conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly early Saturday and remain hazardous through much of the weekend.
Residents should continue to monitor official updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies as the storm develops and conditions evolve.
