North Carolina Braces for Winter Storm with State of Emergency Declaration
The impending winter storm in North Carolina has prompted Governor Stein to declare a State of Emergency, ensuring access to federal aid if needed. This move also activates the State Emergency Response Team to assist communities during the storm expected on Saturday morning. At a recent briefing, Governor Stein, alongside NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray and NC Department of Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson, updated the public on preparedness efforts.
“As another round of winter weather moves into North Carolina, this time possibly bringing snow, I urge everyone to stay alert and take precautions,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our emergency management teams and NCDOT crews continue to work around the clock, and I’m grateful for their continued dedication to keeping North Carolinians safe. Please continue to use caution when driving and follow the same safety steps that helped keep people safe last weekend.”
NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray emphasized the importance of preparation: “Once again much of North Carolina is forecast to receive wintry weather and it’s important to be prepared. While the forecast for this weekend’s storm is expected to be primarily snow, it is important to remember that travel conditions may become treacherous, and it’s safest to just stay home to let first responders, the NCDOT, the NC National Guard, and the State Highway Patrol safely work. With continued cold temperatures, please focus on personal and family preparedness and continue to check in on those in your neighborhood or community who may need support.”
State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson assured residents of the readiness to handle road conditions: “Most road-clearing work from last weekend’s storm is complete and we started pre-treating roads with brine yesterday so we’re ready for what this next storm brings. We expect major impacts to our roads this weekend and into next week due to the expected cold temperatures. Once this storm hits, play it safe and stay off the roads until conditions improve.”
Preparation Tips for Winter Weather
North Carolina Emergency Management officials advise residents to:
- Monitor local weather forecasts closely and prepare accordingly.
- Ensure cell phones and mobile devices are fully charged.
- Use NOAA weather radio or weather alert apps for timely emergency alerts.
- Dress in layers of thin clothing for warmth.
- Keep a vehicle emergency kit with essentials such as a scraper, jumper cables, and blankets.
- Prepare emergency supplies for pets, including food and a travel carrier.
- Check on neighbors and those who may need assistance.
Safety Precautions During Power Outages
- Operate generators outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Avoid indoor use of charcoal or gas grills.
- Ensure proper ventilation for kerosene heaters.
- Use battery-powered lighting instead of candles to minimize fire hazards.
For more information on winter weather safety and preparation, visit ReadyNC.gov. For up-to-date travel information, visit DriveNC.gov, or follow NCDOT on social media.
Click here to read Governor Stein’s executive order.
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