UPDATE: The National Weather Service (NWS) has just issued an urgent winter storm warning for the Wilmington area, as a significant winter storm is set to impact the region with heavy snowfall starting later today. Residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions lasting through the weekend and into Monday.
The NWS forecasts that snow accumulations could reach between 8 to 10 inches across much of Wilmington, with some areas along the I-71 corridor potentially seeing over a foot of snow. Authorities warn that these conditions will severely affect travel, with disruptions expected to continue into Monday.
As temperatures plummet to single digits, an arctic airmass will push wind chills below zero. Residents are advised to brace for sub-zero wind chills this morning, with actual temperatures feeling much colder due to northern winds gusting at 5 to 15 mph. The NWS warns of “dangerously cold temperatures” forecast for Monday and Tuesday mornings, prompting a Cold Weather Advisory effective until noon today.
The biting cold will persist, with several days seeing temperatures hover near zero. Tuesday morning could be especially harsh, with wind chills plummeting to between -10F and -20F. This prolonged chill makes it critical for residents to take necessary precautions against frostbite and hypothermia.
Looking ahead, the winter woes may not end soon. Another round of snow is anticipated from Wednesday into Thursday, as an upper-level disturbance moves through the Ohio Valley. The NWS cautions that any new snowfall could stick quickly to already icy surfaces, adding to the hazardous travel conditions.
The aviation sector is also bracing for impact, as visibility and ceiling conditions are expected to worsen significantly. The NWS indicates that considerable accumulating snow is likely through Sunday evening, potentially leading to visibility issues categorized as Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or lower. Airlines and airports in the region must stay updated on changing conditions to adjust operations accordingly.
With winter weather intensifying, residents are encouraged to stay informed through reliable sources like the NWS and local news outlets. The urgency of this storm cannot be overstated, and the community’s safety depends on preparedness and vigilance.
