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NWS Newport/Morehead City, NC
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Winter Hazards - Freezing Rain
RISK LEVEL
HAZARD DESCRIPTION
Low
  • Trace accumulations of freezing rain are expected
Moderate
  • Freezing rain accumulations of a trace to 1/4 inch are expected.
High
  • Freezing rain accumulations of 1/4 inch or greater are expected.

General Information

Freezing rain is not an uncommon occurrence in our area. Heavy accumulations of ice can bring down trees and topple utility poles and communication towers. Ice can disrupt communications and power for days while utility companies repair extensive damage. Even small accumulations of ice can be extremely dangerous to motorists and pedestrians. Bridges and overpasses are particularly dangerous because they freeze before other surfaces.

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For additional information visit:

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/winter/index.shtml
Winter Weather Safety Tips:

At Home and Work

The primary concerns are loss of heat, power, power, and telephone service and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day.

Have available:

  • Flashlight and extra batteries.
  • Battery powered NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards and portable radio to receive emergency information.
  • Extra food and water. Have high energy foods such as dried fruit, nuts and granola bars, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration.
  • Extra medicine and baby items.
  • First-aid supplies.
  • Heating fuel. Refuel before you are empty. Fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a major winter storm.
  • Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove, space heater. Use properly to prevent a fire and ventilate properly.
  • Fire extinguisher and smoke alarm. Test smoke alarms once a month to ensure they work properly.
  • Make sure pets have plenty of food, water, and shelter.

In Vehicles

Plan your travel, and check the latest weather reports to avoid the storm! Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins. Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Avoid travelling alone, and let someone know your timetable and primary and alternate routes.

Carry a Winter Storm Survival Kit:

  • Mobile phone, cahrger, batteries.
  • Blankets/sleeping bags.
  • Flashlight with extra batteries.
  • First-aid kit.
  • Knife.
  • High -calorie, non-perishable food.
  • Extra clothing to keep dry.
  • Large empty can to use as emergency toilet. Tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes.
  • Small can and waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water.
  • Sack of sand or cat litter for traction.
  • Shovel.
  • Windshield scraper and brush.
  • Tool kit.
  • Tow rope.
  • Battery booster cables.
  • Water container.
  • Compass and road maps.

This Outlook is an Experimental Product for Planning purposes Only!!!

The local frost/freeze hazard graphics are valid for roughly a 24 hour period from the time of issuance (between 4 AM and 6 AM) until 8 AM the following morning. The highest expected risk possible for the duration of the graphic will be depicted. Only one of the listed criteria needs to be met fo inclusion in a higher risk category

Updates will be posted for significant forecast changes and as time permits. As the weather threat increases throughout the day, or becomes imminent, tornado watches and/or warnings will be issued.

The outlook graphics are an effort to improve the interpretation of our outlooks and statements. This product is provided for emergency managers, law enforcement, schools, local media, businesses, and the public. Use the graphical hazardous weather outlook to factor the threat of hazardous weather into your daily plans.

DISCLAIMER: This is an experimental service designed to supplement pre-existing, official means of communication. Timeliness and reliability of products obtained from the Internet are not guaranteed.

Click here for a detailed product description.
Click here to complete a customer feedback survey for this experimental product.
Send e-mail with your comments and suggestions to John Cole.
This project is being developed in an effort to achieve goals set forth in the National Weather Service's Strategic Plan.

Updated 11/30/2004