The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch at 3:50 a.m. on Thursday valid from Friday 1 p.m. until Saturday 10 a.m. The watch is for Person, Granville, Vance, Warren, Halifax, Forsyth, Guilford, Alamance, Orange, Durham, Franklin, Nash, Edgecombe, Davidson, Randolph, Chatham, Wake, Johnston, Wilson, Stanly, Montgomery, Moore, Lee, Harnett, Wayne, Anson, Richmond, Scotland, Hoke, Cumberland and Sampson counties.

“Mixed wintry precipitation is expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations range from a dusting up to 3 inches, highest along and north of I-85. Total ice accumulations of a tenth to two tenths will be possible mainly over the southern Piedmont, Sandhills, into the central and southern Coastal Plain,” explains the NWS. “Snow and sleet are expected Friday afternoon into the evening hours. Mixed precipitation will then spread northward Friday night into Saturday including transitions to sleet, freezing rain, and some all rain. Confidence is low on exact precipitation types, where they will ultimately develop, and associated totals of snow and ice accumulation. However, confidence is increasing that minor to moderate impacts will be possible Friday afternoon into Saturday morning.”

“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” comments the NWS. “Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.”

Drive safely in winter: Expert advice from the NWS for challenging conditions

Winter weather can make driving treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries each year. When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safest to assume that icy conditions exist on roadways and adjust your driving accordingly. Be cautious of ice accumulating on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions. If you must venture out, opt for routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and immediately dial 911 if you come across one. Here are additional winter weather driving tips:

Share your travel plans:

When venturing out of town in hazardous winter weather, be sure to inform family or friends of your destination, your intended route, and your estimated arrival time.

Prepare your vehicle:

Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

Stay calm when stranded:

If you become stranded, stay composed. Notify someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror to signal that you require assistance. Make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers.

Be aware of snow plows:

Keep an eye out for snow plows and provide them with ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.

Check road conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, check the latest road conditions to make informed travel decisions.

Stay safe on wintry roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the NWS, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions.

Source: The National Weather Service