North Wake News

Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency in North Carolina as the state braces for a significant winter storm. In a briefing, Governor Stein, along with Director of Emergency Management Will Ray and Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins, provided updates on the expected weather conditions set to affect the region from Wednesday into Thursday.

“This morning, I declared a state of emergency across North Carolina, and we are activating a cross-agency storm response,” stated Governor Stein. He emphasized concerns about potential power outages and road safety, urging residents to stay off roads once the storm hits and to keep their devices charged.

Director Will Ray announced that the State Emergency Response Team is working closely with various departments including transportation, health services, and local emergency management to ensure resources are distributed swiftly. “We ask that all North Carolinians continue to monitor the weather tomorrow and stay off the roads when possible,” he advised.

The forecast predicts snowfall accumulations ranging from 2 to 6 inches in northern central and eastern areas, with up to 9 inches possible in some northeastern regions. The northern mountains may see 2 to 4 inches of snow. Lighter accumulations are expected elsewhere except for southeastern parts where freezing rain or rain is anticipated.

Significant ice accumulation could lead to power outages due to tree limb breakage. The State Emergency Operations Center remains active alongside Regional Coordination Centers to maintain communication with local officials.

The North Carolina National Guard has mobilized over 180 guardsmen for community support. Meanwhile, more than 1,500 Department of Transportation employees have been pre-treating roads with brine. Nearly 600 trucks equipped with plows and spreaders are ready for action post-storm.

NCDOT crews will work continuously in shifts to clear snow and ice from state-maintained roads starting with interstates followed by major routes and secondary roads.

Residents can visit ReadyNC.gov for power outage information or DriveNC.gov for travel updates. NCDOT also provides updates via social media channels.

Emergency management officials recommend several precautions: monitoring forecasts closely, stocking up on essentials like water and non-perishable food, keeping mobile devices charged, staying off roads if possible, dressing warmly outdoors, preparing an emergency vehicle kit, ensuring pet safety during cold weather, checking on vulnerable neighbors or friends during extreme conditions.

In case of power outages: operate generators outside away from windows or doors; avoid using charcoal indoors; vent kerosene heaters properly; use battery-powered lights instead of candles; ensure portable heaters have adequate space around them; never leave children unattended near heaters.