Snow has been falling across North Carolina and Virginia, including in coastal areas that rarely see snow. Gov. Roy Cooper said that parts of northeastern North Carolina will see the most precipitation in the state, with as much as 3-6 inches.
He issued a statement warning that whiteout conditions could occur along the coast. Winter weather advisories were in effect for many parts of the state, accordingto WRAL.
The National Wealther Service reported that black ice was likely on many roads around the Triangle and North Carolina Friday morning.
Even though the snow has tapered off across the area, the wintry hazards aren't over yet. Be careful if traveling this morning as untreated surfaces will be icy. Winter Weather Advisory extended until noon for all of central NC #NCwx pic.twitter.com/w8Jl5hwP23
— NWS Raleigh (@NWSRaleigh) February 21, 2020
"While conditions are improving, drivers must still be cautious on icy roads and bridges," Cooper said in a news release. "It's safer to stay home today unless you have to be on the roads."
The State Highway Patrol and local police responded to many crashes during the morning commute - but no fatal collisions are reported. Police have closed some roads and bridges due to icy conditions, and highway patrol recommend that if driving is necessary, to reduce speed.
As of 8 a.m., the power was out for about 13,000 homes and businesses. Power outages peaked at about 30,000 statewide before 11 p.m.
This morning 86 school districts are closed due and 17 have announced late openings.
In Virginia, the National Weather Service reported that snow was sticking in places like Suffolk near the coast. The weather service said in tweets that southeast Virginia looks like a “winter wonderland” but also cautioned that driving could be dangerous.
