CHARLOTTE (Precision Weather Alert) – Residents across much of western and central North Carolina and parts of South Carolina are urged to prepare for an ice storm that could cause serious impacts this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
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The National Weather Service has released extreme ice storm warning For many counties, it will begin Saturday morning or early afternoon and continue into Monday, with some areas experiencing impacts into the start of the work week.
ice storm warning
Heavy ice accumulation is expected along with sleet and snow. In many areas under the warning, including Alexander, Avery, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Iredell, Rowan, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Gaston, Union and York counties, ice accumulation is possible from one-half to three-quarters of an inch, with snow and sleet totals between 1 and 3 inches.
In the Charlotte area and surrounding Piedmont counties, including Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Gaston, Union and York counties, the National Weather Service reported up to two inches of sleet and snow and ice accumulations between four-tenths and three-quarters of an inch.
Wind gusts could reach as high as 35 mph, increasing the risk of damage.
Road conditions and power outages
The National Weather Service warned that roads could quickly become hazardous or impassable, especially Saturday night into Sunday night, when ice and sleet are expected to increase rapidly. Officials said widespread power outages were possible, some lasting several days, as heavy ice weighed down trees and power lines.
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The National Weather Service said travel was nearly impossible in parts of South Carolina, including in Chester, Chesterfield and Lancaster counties, and heavy ice accumulation could cause tree damage and power outages.
Emergency officials strongly advise against traveling during the storm. The National Weather Service recommends that anyone who must travel carry food, water and a flashlight and be prepared for prolonged power outages. Drivers can call 511 to check current traffic conditions.
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