While a winter storm warning is now in effect for the Triad, a winter storm watch remains in effect for the rest of central North Carolina, according to the National Weather Service.

The most likely impacts for the Roanoke Valley are as follows:

Snow-sleet accumulation of 1 inch

Sleet accumulation of .5 to 1 inch

Ice accumulation of .38 inches with a worst-case potential of .45 inches.

The wind chill in Roanoke Rapids is expected to reach -2 on Monday night.

The latest briefing says there is high confidence that a significant winter storm is expected to bring heavy ice and sleet accumulations this weekend followed by bitter cold.

Hazards include significant ice from freezing rain, heavy sleet, and dangerously cold wind chills.

Timeline

Late Saturday afternoon: Precipitation begins, possibly as a brief period of snow right along the Virginia border.

Saturday evening through Sunday night: Transition to heavy sleet and freezing rain across central North Carolina.

Monday night into Tuesday: Transition to extreme cold, with nighttime temperatures in the single digits and wind chills near or below zero.

Travel: Conditions will become increasingly slick and dangerous Saturday evening, persisting through at least Monday night.

Power and trees: Heavy ice accumulation is expected to bring down tree branches and entire trees, leading to power outages.

Black ice: Will remain a serious concern for several nights after the storm ends.

The NWS advises completing all preparations immediately. This includes stocking emergency supplies, charging devices, and ensuring pets are indoors.