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A winter storm that moved over parts of North Carolina last weekend left Beaufort County unscathed, but there’s more wintry weather in the forecast later this week.

“Our office continues to monitor the development of a strong cold front that has the potential to bring freezing rain, sleet and possibly snow to our area Thursday night, Friday and early Saturday morning,” Beaufort County Emergency Services Deputy Director Chris Newkirk said in an email. “While forecast confidence continues to grow, it is too early to accurately determine specific impacts for Beaufort County.”

Newkirk said more details about the cold front should emerge over the next day.

The National Weather Service published a “best estimate map” that shows what kinds of weather certain areas of eastern North Carolina could see this weekend. That maps shows that northern parts of the county could see a mix of freezing rain, sleet and some snow, while the southern region could just see freezing rain. The NWS noted that the weather map is subject to change, and the specific amounts of expected precipitation have yet to be determined.

The highest impacts from the storm are expected to happen Friday.

North Carolina Emergency Management officials recommend these tips for preparing for winter weather:

·      Always keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a supply of medication in your home.

·      Keep cell phones and mobile devices charged in case of power outages.

·      Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights.

·      Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.

·      Properly vent kerosene heaters and ensure generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never burn charcoal indoors or use a gas grill indoors.

·      Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.

·      Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit and road map.

·      Make an emergency supplies kit for your pet and include medical records, leash and feeding supplies, enough food and for several days and pet travel carrier.

·      Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather.