Governor Josh Stein has expressed gratitude to North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) crews for their efforts in clearing roads and ensuring public safety ahead of an approaching winter storm. On Friday, Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency to make the state eligible for federal assistance if needed and activated the State Emergency Response Team in preparation for the storm expected on Saturday morning. The team will assist communities with any necessary response measures.
Governor Stein was joined by NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray and NCDOT Secretary Daniel Johnson during his update on preparations and guidance for the upcoming weather event.
“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 stated, “Once again much of North Carolina is forecast to receive wintry weather and it’s important to be prepared. 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 added, “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. 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.”
North Carolina Emergency Management officials have issued several recommendations: monitor local forecasts; keep phones charged; use NOAA radios or alert apps; dress in layers; keep emergency kits in vehicles; prepare supplies for pets; avoid leaving pets outside during freezing weather; check on neighbors; operate generators outdoors only; do not burn charcoal or use gas grills indoors; vent kerosene heaters properly; use battery-powered lights instead of candles.
The Office of the Governor of North Carolina serves as chief executive for state government functions such as enforcing laws, directing budgets, appointing officials, leading the National Guard, granting pardons, chairing the Council of State, and serving all residents across North Carolina according to its official website. Established in 1776 as North Carolina’s oldest public office,the governor’s office continues its role within state governance.
For more information about winter weather safety visit ReadyNC.gov. For real-time travel updates go to DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.
A copy of Governor Stein’s executive order can be found online.