Winter weather has made its return to central North Carolina, bringing with it hazardous road conditions and significant disruptions. Following several days of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, Governor Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency as the region comprises winter storm warnings and advisories. Heavy precipitation, starting Tuesday and intensifying Wednesday, created risks for drivers, leading to thousands of collisions.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) reported over 1,000 vehicle collisions due to the icy conditions, with emergency crews rushing to the scene of numerous accidents. Tragically, one incident involved 53 vehicles on I-85, resulting in one fatality. The weather conditions prompted officials to issue advisories and send out numerous trucks to clear the roads.
While the highways have seen significant efforts to clear snow, many side roads remain potentially dangerous due to thick layers of ice. A winter weather advisory remained active until 1 pm, warning drivers to prepare for treacherous travel conditions. Local residents reported the frustration of driving on slippery roads and gatherings of children partaking in sledding and snowball fights, highlighting the duality of winter storms.
Meanwhile, conditions across the rest of the country are considerably milder, as forecasts indicate continued cold across the central and eastern United States. A weak storm system is expected to bring light precipitation to the eastern third of the nation, particularly around the mid-Atlantic regions. Simultaneously, heavier snowfall may affect parts of the North, as the Northwest braces for substantial precipitation due to incoming Pacific storm systems.
Specifically, these systems may generate totals of four to eight inches of fresh snow across the Cascades, elonganging the winter season for many areas. Unfortunately, many parts of the Plains and the Southwestern regions are expected to remain dry, with warm-ups occurring only gradually.
Further across the globe, the Thai Meteorological Department is raising alarms over unstable weather predictions from February 23-25. Upper Thailand, including Bangkok, is advised to prepare for thunderstorms, lightning, and potential hail. The warning extends to farmers urging them to reinforce crops and prevent damage.
“The public is encouraged to stay informed by following announcements from the Meteorological Department, which can be accessed on their website or by calling the designated helpline. Precautions against the unstable weather patterns are strongly advised,” said the department.
Across northern and northeastern Thailand, residents are especially warned to avoid outdoor spaces during severe thunderstorms. Conditions are predicted to be significantly affected by cold air mass movement from China and moisture influx from the South China Sea. The Gulf of Thailand is especially urged to be cautious, as rough sea conditions with waves exceeding three meters are expected during thunderstorms.
Back on U.S. soil, as the snow showers decreased over North Carolina, the effects of winter lingered with many residents adhering to winter safety advisories. The National Weather Service emphasized the need to "be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution if you need to travel this morning,” echoing the importance of road safety measures.
Despite the hazardous conditions, some regions are expected to experience periods of warming. By the weekend, many areas, including Washington D.C., will enjoy sunny skies. Temperatures will climb above freezing, reaching the mid- to upper-40s, much to the relief of those coping with winter’s icy grip.
Reflecting on past weather patterns, it’s notable to recognize the record low set on February 20, 2015, when D.C. hit five degrees, illustrating perhaps just how much the climate has changed since then.
Concluding this weather update, residents across both the United States and Thailand must remain vigilant and prepared for the unpredictable winter weather. Individual safety measures, heedfulness for road and health advisories, should be of utmost importance as these systems develop.