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Staff report

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, NC, has issued an updated forecast indicating increased probabilities of snow and wintry precipitation beginning this evening and lasting into early Wednesday morning, January 22, 2025. Alongside the snow, an extended period of abnormally cold weather is forecast to persist throughout the week, potentially impacting residents, pets, and plants.

Snowfall Expectations and Timing

• Snow and Sleet Accumulations: Accumulation rates are expected to be greatest tonight into early Wednesday morning, with snow mixed with sleet creating hazardous driving conditions. Expected snowfall amounts vary by location:

• Wilmington, NC: 1-3 inches

• Burgaw, NC: 2-4 inches

• Myrtle Beach, SC: 1-2 inches

• Florence, SC: 1-2 inches

• Chance of Significant Accumulation: While most areas are expected to see 1-3 inches, there is a slight chance of localized heavier snowfall in some areas.

Prolonged Cold Temperatures

Very cold weather will persist across the region for much of the week:

• High temperatures will struggle to rise above freezing in many areas through midweek.

• Wind chills are expected to drop into the single digits to low teens in the mornings, posing a threat to exposed people, pets, and plants.

Secondary Weather System Later This Week

The forecast includes a 20% chance of additional wintry precipitation Thursday night into Friday morning. Freezing rain or a wintry mix is possible, though confidence remains low regarding specific impacts.

Key Takeaways

• High Confidence: The forecast for snow and sleet tonight into early Wednesday morning is reliable, with moderate impacts expected.

• Moderate to Low Confidence: The impacts and amounts for the secondary weather system later this week are less certain.

• Residents should take precautions to protect people, pets, and plants from the extreme cold.

• Hazardous travel conditions are likely tonight through Wednesday morning due to snow and sleet.

Stay tuned to local forecasts for updates and further guidance as the situation develops.