Snow moves out but cold weather to linger

The winter weather advisories that went into affect for seven N.C. counties is over, and the rest of the day should be cold, bright and dry.

WRAL meteorologist Mike Moss said while the bitter temperatures created a mix towards the east and south, the majority of Central NC experienced a cold rain.

Those driving today should be careful of potentially slippery roads. Most major highways are clear, but some side roads in the south and east could be slick.

The cold temperatures will keep any precipitation frozen.

There were no wrecks reported Wednesday due to weather conditions.

Those driving in Fayetteville, Sanford and Goldsboro should be aware, WRAL reporter Mikaya Thurmond said in regards to road conditions.

"We do have some precipitation for some slippery spots on the road," Moss said. "But as we move through the day, the precipitation should move east of us toward the coast."

A blast of cold air diving down into North Carolina collided with a mass of unsettled air that produced frozen precipitation Wednesday morning.

Johnston County's JCATS, which provides transportation services for county residents, has a two-hour delay on Wednesday.

Moss said the areas facing the biggest threat for frozen precipitation are south and east of the Triangle, and include Cumberland, Hoke, Johnston and Pender counties.

Frozen precipitation would not last for long once the sun rises because temperatures Wednesday will top out in the 40s.

NCDOT maintenance crews in Wake County began brining bridges and overpasses with 12 trucks on Tuesday in anticipation of possible snow later in the week. Trucks will be out again around 11 a.m. Wednesday.

Another blast of cold air is expected, however, for later in the week.

The cold won't be going anywhere anytime soon. Bitter, below-normal temperatures are expected to last for the rest of December, and it will be very cold again on New Year's Eve.

"The start to the new year is going to be very cold," WRAL meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth said, noting that the forecast low temperature for the night is just 18 degrees.

If you are ringing in the new year in the area, plan to bundle up for a night on the town.

While it won't be severe, those traveling home after Christmas should be aware of road conditions.

"Some frozen precipitation, slick roads, but most of us are going to see rain," Moss said.