Weather Recovery in North Carolina: Improved Conditions Follow Snowstorm
North Carolina wakes to hopeful weather news as forecasts predict gradual improvements by Saturday. The state experienced a significant snowfall, with 1-5 inches accumulating in the mountains and western Piedmont overnight. Central and eastern parts faced sleet and freezing rain, causing up to 0.15 inches of ice accumulation, leading to hazardous travel conditions.
Governor Josh Stein expressed gratitude, stating, “We are very appreciative of all our first responders, DOT workers, emergency management personnel, and volunteers, as well as all the unsung heroes who work hard to keep North Carolinians safe.”
Emergency Management Director Will Ray encouraged caution: “Conditions are improving across the state after the snow and ice from last night’s storm. We ask that you stay home if you don’t have to be on the roads to allow public safety and transportation personnel to continue their critical work. If you must go out, drive slowly and be cautious of black ice on roads and bridges.”
Although the main storm has moved east, snow showers are expected to persist until early afternoon along the Tennessee border, potentially adding 1-3 inches. While the rest of the state will see breezy and dry conditions conducive to melting, black ice remains a threat, especially in western regions. The possibility of black ice could extend into Sunday night.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has mobilized an impressive workforce of over 2,000 employees and more than 1,900 trucks to tackle the aftermath of the storm. Having pre-treated hundreds of miles of highways with over three million gallons of brine by early Friday, NCDOT teams shifted to clearing roads as the storm progressed. By midday Saturday, they had utilized more than 36,000 tons of salt. Crews remain active around the clock to ensure roads are free of snow, ice, and debris. Despite warmer temperatures facilitating thawing, caution is advised due to potential refreezing overnight.
Airports remain operational, though some flights are delayed or canceled.
Throughout the storm, the State Highway Patrol has been busy, responding to over 1,500 collisions and nearly 1,000 service calls from their five communications centers. Troopers in affected regions continue to handle weather-related incidents, urging the public to drive defensively and maintain safe distances from other vehicles.
The North Carolina National Guard has stationed over 100 soldiers with about 36 vehicles across central and western regions to support thoroughfare access on major interstates in collaboration with NCDOT.
As of 12:15 p.m., power outages affected slightly over 2,900 homes and businesses, with utility crews working diligently on restoration efforts. Earlier, at the peak of the storm around 2:40 a.m., outages exceeded 15,000.
Safety Tips for Residents
- If your power goes out, remember to never use a generator or grill indoors or in the garage due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially those who are vulnerable, and ensure pets’ safety in cold weather.
- Visit ReadyNC.gov for more information on winter weather preparedness.
- For updated road conditions, check DriveNC.gov.
- Reserve 911 calls for emergencies only.
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