South Raleigh News

Today, Governor Josh Stein and Director of Emergency Management Will Ray held a press conference to address the approaching winter storm in North Carolina. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the coastline and inland counties in eastern North Carolina, with snowfall expected between six to eight inches. Central North Carolina faces a Winter Weather Advisory with possible snowfall ranging from one to three inches.

Governor Stein emphasized safety as the primary concern during severe weather events. "During winter weather, just like in any severe weather situation in our state, our number one priority is keeping people safe," he stated. He advised residents to monitor local weather updates, avoid travel if possible, and prepare for potential power outages.

Director Will Ray warned of likely road hazards due to sleet and snow accumulation on cold ground surfaces. "If you do not need to be on the road, please stay home for your safety and for the safety of our first responders," he advised.

The State Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh has been activated along with the Regional Coordination Center – East. The North Carolina National Guard has deployed response teams to assist local emergency services and public safety efforts in eastern parts of the state. These teams include all-hazards response units and hot spot teams dedicated to supporting road clearance operations by the Department of Transportation (DOT).

More than 800 crews from the N.C. Department of Transportation have treated major roads across the state in anticipation of snow and ice. DOT personnel will work continuously once precipitation starts, ensuring that state-maintained roads are cleared efficiently.

Emergency management personnel at both state and local levels remain vigilant, coordinating resources effectively to respond as needed. Twenty-four local emergency operations centers are monitoring conditions closely, while one center remains open for direct management of the situation.

A Cold Weather Advisory covers all areas tonight through midday Wednesday, predicting wind chill values down to fourteen below zero in mountainous regions and single digits elsewhere across the state. Western North Carolina faces an Extreme Cold Warning with wind chills possibly reaching fifteen below zero.

Warming stations are opening throughout affected areas due to low temperatures. County emergency managers will provide information about these facilities on their websites.

For those recovering from Tropical Storm Helene's impact in western North Carolina, assistance is available through the Disaster Case Management Program at 1-844-746-2326 or via https://ncdps.gov/helene.