South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency in North Carolina as the state braces for significant winter weather. During a briefing, Governor Stein, along with Director of Emergency Management Will Ray and Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins, discussed preparations for the storm expected to affect most of the state from Wednesday into Thursday.

Governor Stein emphasized the need for residents to heed local officials' advice and prepare for potential power outages and hazardous road conditions. "This morning, I declared a state of emergency across North Carolina, and we are activating a cross-agency storm response," he stated. He urged travelers to avoid roads once the storm begins and advised keeping devices charged while monitoring local weather updates.

Director Will Ray confirmed that the State Emergency Response Team is coordinating with various agencies to ensure resources are available statewide. "We ask that all North Carolinians continue to monitor the weather tomorrow and stay off the roads when possible," Ray said.

The forecast predicts snowfall accumulations ranging from 2 to 6 inches in northern central and eastern regions, with up to 9 inches possible in some areas. The northern mountains may see 2 to 4 inches, while lighter snowfalls are expected elsewhere. Central and eastern parts could experience significant ice accumulation, potentially leading to power outages due to broken tree limbs.

To support local communities, over 180 members of the North Carolina National Guard have been activated. The N.C. Department of Transportation has pre-treated roads with brine and prepared nearly 600 trucks equipped with plows and spreaders.

Residents can visit ReadyNC.gov for power outage information or DriveNC.gov for real-time travel updates. The public is encouraged to stock up on essentials, keep electronic devices charged, stay indoors if possible, dress warmly when outside, gather supplies for pets, check on vulnerable neighbors, operate generators safely outdoors only, avoid using charcoal or gas grills indoors, vent kerosene heaters properly, use battery-powered lights instead of candles during outages, ensure portable heaters are ventilated properly with space around them, and never leave children unattended near heaters.