South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein and the State Emergency Response Team have issued updates on the ongoing winter weather affecting North Carolina. Governor Stein emphasized the importance of staying informed through local weather forecasts and advised residents to avoid travel due to hazardous road conditions.

"As winter weather continues today, we are doing everything we can to keep North Carolinians safe and respond to the effects of the storm," said Governor Stein. He highlighted the dangers posed by frigid temperatures and wet roads, which have already resulted in one fatality. He urged residents to seek assistance from county emergency operations centers or the North Carolina Disaster Case Management hotline if needed, while also encouraging them to check on their neighbors' safety.

As of noon, approximately 6,105 power outages were reported statewide, with most occurring in eastern North Carolina due to ice accumulation. The State Emergency Response Team remains active in supporting local first responders, energy providers, and the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The NC National Guard is stationed in central and eastern parts of the state with 188 guardsmen and 60 vehicles ready to assist on roadways.

The NCDOT has warned against unnecessary travel as snow-and-ice-covered roads remain treacherous. Numerous crashes have been reported since yesterday, including a confirmed fatality caused by loss of vehicle control.

Since Wednesday morning's snowfall began, NCDOT crews and contractors have been working diligently to clear ice and snow from roads. Over 2,300 employees and contractors are using more than 2,200 trucks and motor graders for this effort. To date, they have applied over 12,650 tons of salt for road treatment.

NCDOT's cut-and-shove teams are actively removing fallen trees and debris from roads while coordinating with utility partners regarding downed power lines. The priority is clearing interstates first, followed by US and NC routes, then secondary roads.

"Our crews are working around the clock to clear roads across the state and will not stop until the job is done," stated NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins. He reiterated that many roads remain dangerous for travel due to snow and ice.

Significant thawing is not expected until Friday afternoon when temperatures rise above freezing. Dangerous conditions like black ice may persist during mornings until then. Residents should check real-time travel conditions at DriveNC.gov before traveling once conditions improve.

For information on power outages or preparing for continued winter weather, visit www.readync.gov. Hurricane Helene disaster survivors can contact FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance today as physical FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in western North Carolina are closed due to weather conditions.

The North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program (NC-DCM) continues supporting Helene survivors via resources accessible at 1-844-746-2326 or www.ncdps.gov/helene/dcm. So far, NC-DCM has processed applications from 2,143 survivors and received at least 5,676 calls for help with housing, financial aid, navigating FEMA assistance as well as food or furniture needs.