WILMINGTON, N.C. (WNCN/WAVY) -- Snow is falling Tuesday night at the North Carolina Outer Banks where a winter storm warning was issued with 8 inches of snow forecast overnight.
Crews with snowplows are expected to hit N.C. 12 at the Outer Banks Tuesday night amid the winter weather warning extending along the entire North Carolina coast. Snow was already accumulating along roads at the Outer Banks by 7 p.m.
Even Wilmington and beaches in southeast North Carolina could see 6 inches of snow, the National Weather Service said.
"Heavy snow" is expected throughout the Outer Banks, according to a winter storm warning now in effect in Currituck, Dare, Hyde, Onslow, Pamlico, Carteret, and Tyrrell, counties, the National Weather Service in Morehead City said.
Snow total predictions have increased since Monday when parts of the Outer Banks were forecast to receive up to 6 inches of snow.
"Blowing and drifting snow is expected, and brief blizzard conditions are also possible, especially along the Outer Banks," forecasters in Morehead City said.
North Carolina coastal counties to the south Pender, New Hanover, Brunswick -- are also under a winter storm warning for up to 4 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington. Five inches of snow could fall along the coast and beaches.
"Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes," the National Weather Service said.
Snowfall is expected to start accumulating after sunset Tuesday, combined with bitter cold temperatures.
Dare County Emergency Management is urging everyone to limit unnecessary travel, as hazardous road conditions are expected.
"NCDOT crews across northeast North Carolina are wrapping up brine operations today, and will be preparing to start plow operations tonight," the N.C. 12 social media account wrote. "Once snow stars accumulating, please stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary."
Some people are visiting the Outer Banks just to see the rare snow.
Sherry Perkins drove from Raleigh to Nags Head with hopes to experience snow on the coast.
“I’m chasing the snow,” Perkins said. “I love the snow, and I love the beach. So, two of my favorite things at one time is great.”
The last time it snowed on the Outer Banks was in 2018.
WAVY-TV contributed to this report