North Wake News

Today, Governor Josh Stein and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) provided updates on the ongoing winter storm affecting North Carolina. Governor Stein advised residents to monitor local weather forecasts and avoid travel if possible.

"Due to the persistent winter weather today, we are doing everything we can to keep people safe and respond to the storm's effects," said Governor Stein. "Freezing temperatures and wet roads are making travel dangerous, resulting in a fatal incident. If you can, stay off roads and highways. If you need help, contact your county's Emergency Operations Center or call the NC Disaster Case Management hotline. Stay safe and check on your neighbors."

As of midday, approximately 6,105 power outages have been reported statewide, mostly in eastern North Carolina communities affected by ice. SERT remains activated to support local first responders, utility providers, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The North Carolina National Guard is deployed in central and eastern regions with 188 personnel and 60 vehicles assisting on roads.

NCDOT authorities urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel as many roads covered with snow and ice are treacherous. Numerous accidents were reported by NCDOT yesterday due to drivers losing control of their vehicles.

Since snowfall began Wednesday morning, NCDOT maintenance crews and contractors have been clearing ice and snow from roads using over 2,200 trucks and graders operated by more than 2,300 employees. They have applied over 12,650 tons of brine as an anti-icing treatment.

NCDOT crews have removed debris and fallen trees from roads while working with utility companies on downed power lines. The agency prioritizes clearing interstates first, followed by U.S. highways, state routes, then secondary roads.

"Our crews are working day and night clearing roads across the state; they won't rest until the job is done," said NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins. "Snowfall has left many roads in dangerously poor condition; if driving isn't necessary, please stay home."

Significant thawing isn't expected until midday Friday when temperatures rise above freezing. Dangerous road conditions will persist for several mornings due to "black ice." Before traveling when conditions improve, residents should check real-time road conditions at DriveNC.gov.

For information about power outages or preparing for continued winter weather conditions, visit Readync.gov.

Those affected by Hurricane Helene can contact FEMA for assistance at 1-800-621-3362. Due to inclement weather, FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in western North Carolina will be physically closed today.

The North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program (NC-DCM) remains available for those impacted by Hurricane Helene. For resources and assistance call 1-844-746-2326 or visit their website. To date, NC-DCM has managed requests from 2,143 individuals affected by disasters and assisted with at least 5,676 calls related to housing aid navigation through FEMA programs food assistance furniture appliances.

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