The National Weather Service in Raleigh, North Carolina, has issued multiple advisories as cold temperatures and potential snowfall are on the horizon for central North Carolina. According to their latest update, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 5 PM this afternoon to 7 AM EST tomorrow, with snow accumulations of up to one inch expected. The southern and eastern Piedmont, as well as the northern Coastal Plain, are areas likely to be affected. The NWS warns that roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, "will likely become slick and hazardous," potentially impacting both this evening and tomorrow morning commutes.
The advisory also includes a Cold Weather Advisory; in place until 10 AM EST this morning and then again from 3 AM to 10 AM EST tomorrow. Residents should brace for very cold wind chills, dropping as low as 7 degrees above zero this morning and potentially reaching as low as 2 degrees above zero tomorrow morning. "Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures," the NWS cautions. The affected regions span from the Piedmont to the Sandhills, and northeast Coastal Plain of central North Carolina, including major cities such as Raleigh, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem.
People are being urged to dress appropriately, wearing a hat, and gloves to protect against the biting cold. Additionally, the NWS advises keeping pets indoors as much as possible and checking frequently on older family, friends, and neighbors. They also stress that portable heaters must be used with caution and advise against the use of generators or grills inside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Weather spotters in the region are encouraged to report significant weather conditions, in line with Standard Operating Procedures. As always, those hitting the roads should remain vigilant, reducing speeds and maintaining a safe following distance. For updated road conditions, locals can call 5 1 1 or check their state's transportation department website. With the fluctuating temperatures, next week's weather appears to offer some reprieve with expectations of mostly sunny skies and higher temperatures nearing the mid-50s by Sunday.
