Cold snap headed for Cape Fear: How to protect people, pets, pipes and plants

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — After several days of unseasonably warm weather, the Cape Fear region is preparing for a significant cold snap this weekend, with temperatures expected to drop into the 30s for overnight lows.

WWAY meteorologists and National Weather Service in Wilmington say a series of cold fronts will bring much colder air to southeastern North Carolina beginning Friday.

High temperatures are expected to fall from the mid-to-upper 70s Thursday to around 60 degrees Friday. By the weekend, highs will struggle to reach the upper 50s, with overnight lows dropping into the 30s.

The greatest risk for freezing temperatures is expected Saturday night into Sunday morning, particularly in areas away from the immediate coast.

As temperatures begin to fall, emergency preparedness officials are reminding residents to remember the four P’s: people, pets, pipes and plants.

Remember the four P’s

Howard Wallace, Columbus County Extension Director, emphasized that protecting people should be the first priority, especially older adults and young children who may be more vulnerable to cold temperatures.

“Priority number one being people. If you have elderly or young folks, you need to be checking on them to make sure that they’re staying warm” Wallace said.

For pets, Wallace recommends bringing animals indoors when possible or making sure outdoor animals have adequate shelter from the cold.

Residents should also take precautions to prevent frozen pipes.

Wallace recommends allowing water to run slowly during the coldest periods and opening cabinet doors to let warmer indoor air circulate around plumbing.

For plants, he encourages residents to bring potted plants indoors and keep them there until the cold front passes.

Colder weather expected into next week

The National Weather Service says temperatures this weekend could be comparable to typical conditions in mid-January.

A Freeze Watch may be needed for inland communities as the risk of widespread freezing temperatures increases.

Coastal areas may remain slightly warmer, although frost is still possible.

Despite the colder conditions, sunshine and dry weather are expected to continue through the weekend and into early next week.

Residents are encouraged to prepare before temperatures fall, particularly if they have sensitive plants, exposed plumbing or pets that spend time outdoors.

For the latest conditions, visit WWAY’s daily forecast.