Governor Josh Stein has expressed gratitude to North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) crews for their ongoing efforts to clear roads and protect residents as a new winter storm approaches the state. On Friday, Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency in advance of the expected snow event scheduled to begin Saturday morning. The declaration is intended to position North Carolina for federal assistance if needed and allows for the activation of the State Emergency Response Team.
The State Emergency Response Team will coordinate with affected communities throughout the weather event. Governor Stein was joined at his announcement by NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray and NC Department of Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson, who provided updates on preparation measures.
“As another round of winter weather moves into North Carolina, this time possibly bringing snow, I urge everyone to stay alert and take precautions,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our emergency management teams and NCDOT crews continue to work around the clock, and I’m grateful for their continued dedication to keeping North Carolinians safe. Please continue to use caution when driving and follow the same safety steps that helped keep people safe last weekend.”
NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray emphasized preparedness: “Once again much of North Carolina is forecast to receive wintry weather and it’s important to be prepared,” he said. “While the forecast for this weekend’s storm is expected to be primarily snow, it is important to remember that travel conditions may become treacherous, and it’s safest to just stay home to let first responders, the NCDOT, the NC National Guard, and the State Highway Patrol safely work. With continued cold temperatures, please focus on personal and family preparedness and continue to check in on those in your neighborhood or community who may need support.”
State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson described actions taken ahead of the storm: “Most road-clearing work from last weekend’s storm is complete and we started pre-treating roads with brine yesterday so we’re ready for what this next storm brings,” he said. “We expect major impacts to our roads this weekend and into next week due to the expected cold temperatures. Once this storm hits, play it safe and stay off the roads until conditions improve.”
Officials recommend several steps for residents preparing for winter weather. These include monitoring local forecasts closely; charging mobile devices; using NOAA weather radios or alert apps; dressing in layers; keeping emergency kits in vehicles with essential supplies such as blankets, flashlights, jumper cables, sand or salt; preparing pet supplies; ensuring pets are not left outside during freezing conditions; and checking on neighbors or vulnerable individuals.
For those experiencing power outages during severe weather events, guidance includes operating generators only outdoors away from windows or doors, never burning charcoal indoors or using gas grills inside homes due to carbon monoxide risks, venting kerosene heaters properly, and using battery-powered lighting instead of candles.
Residents can find additional information about winter weather safety from official state resources online.
