RALEIGH, N.C. — Governor Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency as North Carolina braces for a significant winter storm expected to impact much of the state this weekend. Stein will deliver a storm‑preparedness briefing on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 11:15 a.m., joined by senior state officials including Public Safety Secretary Jeff Smythe, Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson, Emergency Management Director Will Ray, State Highway Patrol Colonel Freddy Johnson, and National Guard Major General Todd Hunt.
“A winter storm is approaching, and now is the time to prepare,” Stein said, urging residents to gather essential supplies and plan for potential power outages. He encouraged people to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary so emergency crews can operate safely.
The State Emergency Response Team has been activated ahead of the storm’s expected arrival early Saturday. State agencies are coordinating with local governments, private partners, and volunteer organizations to ensure resources are ready to support affected communities.
Statewide Preparations Underway
- NCDOT crews pre‑treating roads: Transportation workers and contractors have spent several days brining roads, bridges, and overpasses, restocking salt, and preparing equipment. Crews from the mountains to the coast are scheduled to work around the clock through the weekend.
- Regulation waivers for emergency vehicles: With approval from the Council of State, the Governor has temporarily lifted certain transportation rules to improve coordination of emergency response efforts.
- Emergency Management coordination: Director Will Ray said teams are working closely with local partners statewide and urged residents to complete preparations by Friday evening and limit travel once conditions deteriorate.
Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson echoed the warning, noting that crews are already treating roads and asking residents to avoid travel during the storm so workers can safely clear major routes.
Hazardous Conditions Expected
Forecasters warn that road conditions may worsen early Saturday and remain dangerous for several days due to subfreezing temperatures expected throughout next week. While some uncertainty remains, confidence is growing that the storm will bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to large portions of the state. Lingering ice, snowpack, and dangerously cold wind chills may continue into next week.
Winter Weather Safety Tips
- Monitor your local forecast and stay aware of changing conditions.
- Charge phones and backup batteries ahead of the storm.
- Use NOAA weather radios or alert apps for emergency notifications.
- Dress in layers to stay warm.
- Keep a vehicle emergency kit with essentials such as jumper cables, blankets, sand/salt, and a flashlight.
- Prepare supplies for pets and avoid leaving them outdoors in freezing weather.
- Check on neighbors and the elderly during extreme cold.
If Power Goes Out
- Operate generators outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Never use charcoal or gas grills indoors.
- Vent kerosene heaters properly.
- Use battery‑powered lights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
More winter safety information is available at ReadyNC.gov. For real‑time travel updates, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.
© 2026 bcdollarsaver.com. All rights reserved.
Be the first to comment