Governor Josh Stein provided an update today on the ongoing winter storm affecting North Carolina. He was joined by officials from state public safety, transportation, health and human services, emergency management, the State Highway Patrol, and the National Guard.
“North Carolina: we are not out of the woods yet. Freezing rain today and bitter cold in the coming days will continue to bring dangerous road conditions and power outages,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Be sure to have a plan for if your power goes out, and please stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Our state team is working together with our private, federal, and local partners to provide emergency support and keep you safe.”
President Trump approved an Emergency Declaration requested by Governor Stein. This declaration allows North Carolina to use federal resources for actions such as deploying generators to critical facilities like hospitals, supporting shelter operations, providing emergency supplies of food, water, and fuel, and receiving help from the US Forest Service in removing downed trees.
Since last night, various forms of winter precipitation—including snow, sleet, and freezing rain—have been reported throughout North Carolina. Warnings remain in effect for multiple regions across the state due to ongoing hazardous weather conditions.
The main impacts expected Sunday include ice accumulations between 0.25” – 0.5” on flat surfaces in some areas of the mountains and Piedmont region. Other areas could see up to 0.25” of ice accumulation. Temperatures are forecasted to drop into single digits Monday night with continued cold through next week.
“It is important that all North Carolinians in communities impacted by wintry precipitation stay home and off the roadways today and into tomorrow,” said Director of Emergency Management Will Ray. “We will see additional freezing rain and impacts, like power outages, so please do not let your guard down.”
On Wednesday prior to the storm’s arrival, Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency in anticipation of these weather events. The State Emergency Response Team was activated before Saturday’s onset to assist communities across North Carolina.
Transportation crews have been treating roads with salt and sand since Saturday after applying nearly four million gallons of brine beforehand. Teams will work continuously statewide using trucks equipped with salt spreaders and plows until all state-maintained roads are clear; chainsaw crews are also deployed for tree removal efforts involving blocked roads or power lines.
Officials caution that this rare storm is affecting much of North Carolina with continued snow, sleet, freezing rain through Sunday evening—making travel hazardous for several days.
“We’re thankful to people across the state for exercising caution and staying off the roads. We’re not out of the woods yet, and conditions will continue to deteriorate throughout the day,” said State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson. “It’s more difficult to clear ice than it is snow, and road conditions are going to remain dangerous in the days ahead. We encourage everyone to continue avoiding travel so crews can work to clear roads as weather allows.”
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates at DriveNC.gov regarding road closures or changing conditions.
Emergency management officials recommend residents prepare by monitoring forecasts closely; keeping devices charged; using NOAA radios or alert apps; dressing warmly in layers; storing emergency kits including vehicle supplies; gathering pet care items; ensuring pets are brought inside during freezing temperatures; checking on friends or neighbors who may need help during severe weather.
If power outages occur: operate generators outdoors away from windows or doors; never burn charcoal indoors nor use gas grills inside homes; properly vent kerosene heaters; use battery-powered lights instead of candles.
More information about winter safety is available at ReadyNC.gov.
Governor Josh Stein serves as chief executive officer for all residents across North Carolina according to official sources. The Office dates back to 1776 as one of state’s oldest public institutions and directs emergency response activities including leading coordination among agencies such as National Guard appointments and directing policy during emergencies.
