ROCKINGHAM — The chances of seeing snow in Richmond County have increased, leading to a winter weather advisory being issued.
The National Weather Service on Tuesday issued the advisory, effective from 5 p.m. until 7 a.m. Wednesday, for several central counties including Richmond, Anson, Stanly, Montgomery, Moore, Lee, Harnett, Randolph, Chatham.
Counties farther to the east — including Scotland, Cumberland, Hoke and Sampson — are under a winter storm warning.
Forecasters had initially predicted a low chance of accumulation for snow — no more than a half-inch — however, totals for Richmond County could be as high as 2 inches.
Areas between Interstate 95 and U.S. 17 could see up to 4 inches of snow and up to 8 inches is forecast for the coast.
The NWS advisory notes that roads and bridges could become slick with the falling snow sticking as temps remain near or below freezing, which could impact Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.
Roads across Richmond County were treated on Monday.
The area is also under a cold weather advisory until 10 a.m. Jan. 22, with overnight lows dipping into the teens and wind chill values in the single digits overnight and around 10 degrees during the day on Wednesday.
Overnight lows are expected to remain below freezing through the weekend, with daytime highs not passing 50 degrees until Sunday.
Residents most susceptible to the cold temps include infants, the elderly, outdoor workers, those with chronic illness and the “unhoused.” The NWS also urges that pets be kept indoors if possible.
The Berry Patch in Ellerbe gave away pine straw for pet bedding ahead of the cold snap.
