NORTH CAROLINA — An arctic cold front expected to arrive this weekend could increase the chances of winter weather across North Carolina during the upcoming holiday weekend.
Forecasters say the cold front is likely to move through the region on Saturday. After its passage, weather models indicate an area of low pressure may develop just off the coast of North Carolina, a setup that can sometimes bring wintry precipitation to the state.
The type and amount of winter weather will largely depend on the exact track of the developing low-pressure system. If the system remains far offshore, much of the moisture would stay near the coast, resulting in little or no precipitation inland. A track closer to the coastline could bring snowfall to parts of the state. If the system moves farther inland, forecasters say eastern counties could see a wintry mix, while northwestern counties would have a greater chance of snow.
As of Thursday morning, forecast models show differing scenarios. One model brings the low northward along the coastline, which would increase the likelihood of snow across central North Carolina. Another model places the system farther offshore, which could allow for snow that may change to a wintry mix. A third model keeps the low even farther offshore, resulting in drier conditions for much of central North Carolina.
Some coastal areas are now showing a 40 to 50 percent chance of receiving at least one inch of snow. Forecasters say the best chance for more widespread snowfall would occur if the low-pressure system tracks directly along the North Carolina coast.
