Eastern North Carolina is experiencing a true winter wonderland this Wednesday morning, as heavy snow blanketed the region overnight. Areas especially east of Highway 17 woke up to several inches of snow, creating a picturesque but challenging scene for many.
Snowfall and Road Conditions
On Tuesday night, snow started falling across the region, continuing through Wednesday morning. Snow accumulation in some areas reached between 2 inches to 7 inches, creating a beautiful snowy landscape, but also presenting safety concerns for drivers and residents.
Local officials are urging the public to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Although snow plows have been working hard to clear the major roadways, road conditions remain slippery and hazardous. The Jacksonville bypass was one of the only major closures reported, and it has now been cleared. Thankfully, major road closures have not been common throughout the area.
Power Outages and Services Affected
Fortunately, power outages have been minimal, with Jacksonville being the only area affected. The outage, which occurred Tuesday night, has now been resolved. Many homes are still receiving power, and crews are working to ensure the system stays operational during the snowy conditions.
Despite the snowstorm, most local government offices and services are still running, but a few closures have been reported. Jacksonville City Hall and all other public offices are closed to the public today, as are all recreation centers and programs. In addition, the police records office is closed, but emergency services remain operational. Residents in need of urgent assistance should dial 911.
As the snow continues, other city services have been impacted. The sanitation services in Jacksonville will not run today, and transit services have been canceled due to the hazardous weather conditions. Greenville Utilities has also closed its offices for the remainder of the day due to dangerous driving conditions but plans to reopen tomorrow at noon.
Weather Forecast and What’s Next
While the snowfall is starting to taper off, temperatures are expected to stay below freezing in most areas. Residents should expect northeast winds ranging from 5 to 15 mph. These cold conditions are likely to last throughout Wednesday, with low wind chills making it feel even colder.
As the evening sets in, temperatures will drop even further, and another cold front is expected to move in. Thursday morning could bring light rain or freezing rain, so there is a chance of more hazardous road conditions.
Updates from Local Governments
Here’s a quick summary of what’s happening in some of the major cities and counties in Eastern North Carolina:
Jacksonville
- City Hall and all offices are closed.
- All recreation centers and programs are also closed.
- The Police records office is closed; for emergencies, call 911.
- Sanitation services and transit services are suspended for today.
Greenville
- Greenville Utilities will remain closed for the day and reopen at noon tomorrow due to hazardous conditions.
Carteret County
- The county government urges residents to stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel.
- All county offices and solid waste convenience sites are closed.
- Carteret County Sheriff’s Office is advising that road conditions are still hazardous.
Staying Safe During Snowstorm Conditions
As snow continues to fall in parts of Eastern North Carolina, it’s essential for residents to stay informed and safe. Travel should be limited to emergencies only, and people are encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible. It’s also a good idea to check in on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with young children, to make sure they are comfortable and safe in their homes.
While it’s tempting to enjoy the beautiful snow, remember that these conditions can be dangerous. Make sure your home is properly heated, and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions can change quickly.
Summary
Eastern North Carolina is experiencing a rare winter storm that has covered the region in snow and caused disruptions to daily life. Snow accumulation ranges from 2 to 7 inches in some areas, and temperatures are expected to remain below freezing.
Local governments are advising residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay safe indoors. Emergency services are still operational, but some services, including public offices, transit, and sanitation, have been temporarily suspended. The weather is expected to remain cold, with a chance of freezing rain on Thursday.
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