Governor Stein, alongside emergency management and transportation officials, provided an update today on North Carolina’s preparations for an approaching winter storm. The briefing included remarks from NC Department of Public Safety Secretary Jeff Smythe, NC Department of Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson, NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray, NC State Highway Patrol Colonel Freddy Johnson, and Major General Todd Hunt of the North Carolina National Guard.
“This weekend’s winter storm is likely to impact most of North Carolina, so please make a plan now to keep yourself and your loved ones safe,” said Governor Stein. “A State of Emergency is in effect, and our State Emergency Response Team is activated and ready to assist impacted communities. The most important thing you can do right now is prepare for potential power outages and have emergency supplies ready.”
Forecasters predict light precipitation will begin early Saturday, moving from west to east across the state. Officials warn that the storm may create hazardous driving conditions—especially on bridges and overpasses—as well as damage from ice accumulation on tree limbs and possible long-lasting power outages. Southwestern North Carolina could see major impacts.
Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency yesterday in anticipation of the storm. The State Emergency Response Team has been activated ahead of Saturday’s arrival to help affected communities respond as needed.
The NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has prepared by pre-treating roads with more than 800,000 gallons of brine and restocking salt supplies. Over 1,600 NCDOT crews and contractors are standing by to plow snow and treat ice until state-maintained roads are cleared. Chainsaw crews are also ready to remove downed trees or debris and coordinate with utility companies if power lines are involved.
With agreement from the Council of State, certain transportation regulations have been waived for vehicles supporting emergency response efforts statewide to improve coordination.
“Winter storm watches have been issued for most of the state with impacts from this storm expected to last into early next week,” said Director of Emergency Management Will Ray. “We will continue to work with the entire State Emergency Response Team – local and state governments, the private sector, and our non-profit and volunteer partners – as the forecast continues to evolve to ensure we can support our 11 million North Carolinians.”
“We urge people to get prepared now for what’s shaping up to be a very cold period for our state,” said State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson. “Please don’t try to drive once the storm hits unless it’s necessary. Please protect yourselves, your families and everyone responding to this storm by being patient and playing it safe.”
North Carolina Emergency Management recommends residents monitor forecasts closely; keep phones charged; use NOAA weather radios or alert apps; dress in layers; store emergency kits in vehicles; gather pet supplies; avoid leaving pets outside during freezing weather; check on neighbors; operate generators safely outdoors; avoid burning charcoal or using gas grills indoors; vent kerosene heaters properly; and use battery-powered lights instead of candles during power outages.
