A winter storm is expected to impact much of North Carolina on Wednesday into early Thursday. Wilmington is bracing for a winter storm that could bring freezing rain and sleet, with temperatures plummeting below freezing and highs around 48 degrees during the day. The chance of precipitation is high, with a 100% chance during the day Wednesday and a 90% chance Wednesday night. Residents are advised to prepare for potential ice accumulation and hazardous road conditions as Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency in preparation for the storm.
The storm brought snow and ice to the Cape Fear region by Tuesday night, with some areas reporting up to five inches of snow by Wednesday morning. As the storm progresses, residents in Wilmington can expect freezing rain, creating slick and hazardous road conditions through Thursday morning. Precipitation throughout Wednesday will likely lead to ice accumulation across the Port City, with temperatures dropping below freezing in the evening.
Governor Josh Stein has taken proactive measures by declaring a state of emergency ahead of the winter storm. Various school districts and colleges have announced closures and delays, with remote learning for students in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties. Additionally, operations in Leland and Belville will be delayed to ensure safety during the storm.
Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as emergency officials and Governor Stein emphasize the importance of safety during adverse weather conditions. Crews have been pre-treating roads, and National Guardsmen have been activated to support emergency response efforts. Power utilities are on standby to restore electricity in case of outages.
As the storm intensifies, residents should closely monitor local weather updates, keep emergency kits ready, and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay safe by staying informed and prepared for the inclement weather conditions. Remember, taking care of each other is what North Carolinians do best.