North Carolina – Hey North Carolina! Winter’s here and it’s bringing more than just snow. We’ve got wind gusts joining the mix, making travel that much trickier. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 6 PM, so be prepared for slick roads, blowing snow, and low visibility. If you’re heading out, expect snow-covered streets, icy patches, and windy conditions, particularly on highways and overpasses.
What’s Going On?
A series of snow showers is moving through North Carolina today, bringing snow that will accumulate and cause slippery conditions. Along with the snow, winds up to 30 MPH will blow the snow around, making it even harder to see. The snow should ease up by midday, but roads will remain slippery well into the evening. You can expect 1 to 3 inches of snow, with the heaviest amounts likely in the mountainous regions.
- Snow Accumulation: Most areas will see 1 to 3 inches, with more in the higher elevations.
- Road Conditions: Snow-covered and slippery roads will be the main issue today. Bridges and overpasses are especially dangerous, as they freeze more quickly. Be on the lookout for black ice, which can form as the snow melts and refreezes.
- Wind Gusts: Wind gusts of up to 30 MPH will blow snow around, reducing visibility and making roads even harder to navigate.
What This Means for You
- Roads: Expect snow-covered roads and icy patches throughout the day. If you’re driving, slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and be ready to stop safely. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, so give them extra attention.
- Visibility: Blowing snow will make it hard to see the road ahead. Keep your headlights on and be extra cautious, especially on highways and in open areas.
- Pedestrian Safety: Sidewalks and driveways will be slippery, so take it slow when walking. Wear shoes with good traction and be careful out there.
What You Can Do
- Drive slowly and cautiously. If you must head out, take your time. Give yourself plenty of space and avoid sudden braking. The roads are slick, and visibility is low—there’s no need to rush.
- Prepare for delays. Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, snacks, and a flashlight. You never know when delays will happen.
- Stay informed. Stay up-to-date with the latest weather updates and road conditions. Use traffic apps or check the news to keep an eye on the situation.
When Will It End?
The snow will ease up by 6 PM, but slippery roads will remain a concern for the evening commute. Even after the snow stops, black ice could be a real problem, so stay cautious as conditions may worsen after the snow stops falling.
This snowstorm might not be the biggest we’ve seen, but it’s still enough to make the roads hazardous. Snow-covered roads, black ice, and low visibility will make travel risky. If you can stay home, that’s probably your safest bet. If you have to go out, drive slowly, stay informed, and be cautious on slippery roads. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep checking the weather for updates!
