Manteo, N.C. Prepares for Historic Snowstorm

Manteo transforms into a winter wonderland with snow covering the town.

News Summary

Manteo, North Carolina is preparing for an extraordinary winter storm that may bring 4 to 6 inches of snow, making it a memorable event. With road conditions worsening, local officials urge residents to travel cautiously. Local schools are closed, creating unexpected snow days for children. This storm could rank among the highest snowfall events in Outer Banks history, providing locals with a unique winter wonderland experience amidst concerns for safety.

Manteo, N.C. Braces for Historic Snowstorm

Well, folks, it seems like the cool vibes of coastal life have taken a frosty turn in Manteo, North Carolina. Residents of this beautiful Outer Banks town are gearing up for something truly extraordinary, as they prepare for an all-out winter showdown. Yes, you heard it right—an atypical winter wonderland is heading our way!

Wake Up to Winter: What to Expect

The weather forecast is sounding the alarms with predictions of snowfall ranging from 4 to 6 inches across the Outer Banks. This isn’t just your everyday sprinkle of snow, either. Given that we typically see rain during winter weather events—thanks to that pesky rain-snow transition line—this all-snow event has caught everyone by surprise. It’s shaping up to be a memorable time for locals, who may witness one of the biggest snowfalls in history right in their backyards!

For some context, Manteo’s record for the largest single-day snowfall stands at a whopping 10 inches, a record set way back in February 1980. To put a cherry on top of this snowy sundae, Cape Hatteras holds the record for the most snow ever recorded in the area—an astonishing 11 inches back in 1917. How’s that for some serious snowfall stats? If the current storm lives up to its predictions, it could very well land among the top five snowfall events in Outer Banks history.

Storm Preparations Underway

As the snow began to fall around 3:15 PM on January 21, residents were prompted to batten down the hatches. The Dare County officials are hard at work, prepping for what could be hazardous road conditions. These helpful folks are launching plowing and salting operations to keep the roads as safe as possible. A winter storm warning has been issued, and it will remain in effect until 7 AM on January 22, 2025.

Dare County Emergency Management is advising everyone to limit unnecessary travel as the weather may turn treacherous. They are keeping a close eye on road conditions, ready to spring into action if necessary, so it’s definitely not a time for a joy ride!

How’s the Snow Stacking Up?

In terms of snowfall measurements, it’s looking like a winter fairytale come to life! As of the latest updates, here’s how some locations have fared:

Wright Brothers National Memorial: 9.0 inches
Rodanthe: 8.0 inches
Southern Shores: 7.0 inches
Manteo: 6.0 inches
Ocracoke Village (Hyde County): 8.3 inches

With schools in Dare, Currituck, and Tyrrell Counties announcing closures, it looks like the kiddos are in for a surprise snow day! And don’t forget—Dare County offices will also be closed on January 23, 2025, so that everyone can enjoy this snowy spectacle safely from home.

Facing the Cold: What’s Next?

If you’re hoping to hit the beach or take a ferry ride, there’s a bit of a snag. The North Carolina Ferry Service has suspended all its routes due to the unforgiving winter conditions. Also, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore has temporarily closed all off-road vehicle (ORV) ramps because driving conditions on the beach are, quite frankly, too difficult.

Expect measurable snow to keep coming down into Wednesday morning, but it doesn’t stop there—the temperatures are forecasted to take a nose dive overnight. Be sure to keep an eye on those chilly evenings, as we might be looking at some rapidly freezing temperatures. Remember, folks, stay vigilant and safe as we navigate this surprising winter wonderland. Cheers to cozy nights in with hot cocoa and watching the snowflakes dance from the comfort of our homes!