North Wake News

Today, Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency as North Carolina braces for winter weather expected to affect most of the state. In a morning briefing, Stein, alongside Director of Emergency Management Will Ray and Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins, outlined preparations for the impending storm forecasted to bring snow and ice 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 over potential power outages and road safety, advising residents to avoid travel once the storm arrives.

Will Ray confirmed that the State Emergency Response Team is operational and coordinating with various departments including transportation and health services to ensure rapid resource deployment. “We ask that all North Carolinians continue to monitor the weather tomorrow and stay off the roads when possible,” he urged.

Forecasts predict snowfall accumulations ranging from 2 to 9 inches in different parts of northern central and eastern North Carolina. The western region may see up to 4 inches while lighter snow is expected elsewhere. Southeastern areas could experience freezing rain instead.

Significant ice accumulation poses risks such as tree limb breakage and power outages in central and eastern regions. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather changes as forecasts evolve.

In response, over 180 members of the North Carolina National Guard have been activated to support local efforts. Meanwhile, more than 1,500 N.C. Department of Transportation employees have been preparing roads with brine treatments covering hundreds of miles statewide.

Once the storm hits, NCDOT crews will work continuously in shifts prioritizing interstates before moving onto U.S., N.C., and secondary routes using nearly 600 trucks equipped with plows.

For information on power outages or travel conditions, residents can visit ReadyNC.gov or DriveNC.gov respectively. Officials also recommend stocking up on essentials like water and non-perishable food while keeping devices charged.

Additional safety tips include using NOAA weather radios for alerts, storing emergency vehicle kits, dressing warmly in layers when outdoors, gathering pet supplies, checking on vulnerable neighbors during severe weather conditions, operating generators safely outside away from windows or doors, venting kerosene heaters properly, using battery-powered lighting instead of candles indoors for fire safety reasons.