South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein has advised North Carolinians to prepare for a winter storm expected to impact the state with snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The storm is anticipated to affect travel and may cause power outages from the mountains to the coast.

"As this storm moves into North Carolina, we anticipate a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain that will cause travel impacts and potential power outages from the mountains to the coast," said Governor Josh Stein. "I encourage all North Carolinians to monitor their local weather forecast during the next several days, stay home if possible, and make any final preparations today necessary to remain safe and warm this weekend. To the people of western North Carolina, we know that this storm is making a difficult time even harder. We are with you every step of the way and will not let up."

Emergency Management Director Will Ray stated that they have been monitoring the weather system closely in coordination with local emergency managers across the state. "The State Emergency Response Team has been activated and is working with key partners – such as the Department of Transportation, the North Carolina National Guard, the State Highway Patrol, and utilities, as well as others."

Secretary Joey Hopkins urged residents to prepare emergency supplies ahead of time. "I am encouraging all North Carolinians to be prepared, to get your emergency supplies and anything else you might need now," he said. "Once the storm hits, please don’t try to drive. Stay off the roads unless it is absolutely essential that you travel."

The Department of Transportation has mobilized over 1,900 employees and contractors for pre-storm activities. They have used more than three million gallons of brine on roads statewide and have over 600 trucks equipped with plows ready for snow removal.

Residents can find additional information on winter weather safety at ReadyNC.gov or check real-time travel updates at DriveNC.gov.

North Carolina Emergency Management officials provided several tips for preparing for winter weather: keeping cell phones charged; using NOAA radios or alert apps; dressing warmly in layers; storing vehicle emergency kits; gathering pet supplies; looking out for neighbors; safely operating generators outside; avoiding indoor charcoal burning or gas grill use; venting kerosene heaters properly; using battery-powered lights instead of candles.

For those displaced by Hurricane Helene needing assistance, FEMA support can be reached at 1-800-621-3362.