Wilmington, North Carolina – The risk for a significant winter storm is increasing across eastern North Carolina this weekend, with heavy snow and dangerous travel conditions possible Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City reports that forecast trends continue to increase for several inches of snow, with a growing probability of snowfall totals exceeding 8 inches in parts of the region. The event is expected to be mostly snow, with the highest impacts possible near the coast.
Forecasters note that snowfall rates may exceed 1 to 2 inches per hour during the peak of the storm. These rates, combined with gusty winds, could lead to blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, particularly in open areas and near the water. The agency also warns that localized blizzard conditions are possible along the coast.
Probability maps released Wednesday show high chances of impactful snow across much of eastern North Carolina, including communities near U.S. Highway 17, U.S. 70, NC Highway 12, and U.S. 258. Travel along these corridors could become hazardous or impossible if heavy snow bands develop.
The National Weather Service cautions that if the higher-end snowfall scenarios verify, impacts could last into much of next week, affecting road conditions, daily travel, and recovery efforts.
At this time, officials stress that while confidence is increasing in a high-impact event, exact totals and the most affected locations remain dependent on the storm’s final track and intensity. Residents are urged to closely monitor forecast updates through weather.gov and trusted local sources.
Commuters, students, and coastal residents should begin preparing now for the potential of prolonged travel disruptions and dangerous outdoor conditions Sunday.
