Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency for North Carolina in anticipation of severe winter weather.
Stein and state Emergency Response Team members gave an update Friday morning on their preparations.
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“The winter storm will likely hit much of our state,” the governor said. “At this time, our greatest concern is road safety. Everyone needs to be careful on our roads.”
On Wednesday, Stein activated state resources to set into motion a cross-agency storm response ahead of the storm’s arrival Friday and enable the potential of federal reimbursement if the event qualifies.
Officials with the North Carolina Department of Transportation said they were working around the clock in 12-hour shifts to plow and treat snow and ice until all state-maintained roads were cleared.
“State emergency officials are monitoring the situation and are prepared to assist the counties and municipalities if needed,” said NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray. “Residents across the state should be prepared to shelter in place. If the power goes out, be sure to operate generators outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.”
A Winter Storm Warning was issued starting Friday at 7 a.m. and will last through Saturday morning.
Hazardous travel conditions are expected Friday and may continue until Monday. Areas of black ice will be possible, along with scattered power outages where snow and ice accumulations are the heaviest. Power outages will also be more likely in areas with heavier snowfall, due to the weight of the snow on tree limbs and power lines.
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NCDOT is urging people not to travel during the storm unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must travel during bad weather, State Highway Patrol officials remind motorists to reduce speed, leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles, and clear all ice or snow from your vehicle before traveling. If you become stranded, pull off the highway, remain in your vehicle, and call for help. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you can take shelter.
To prepare for winter weather, North Carolina Emergency Management officials recommend these tips:
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Pay close attention to your local forecast and be prepared for what’s expected in your area.
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Keep cell phones, mobile devices, and spare batteries charged.
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Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.
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Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.
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Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit and road map.
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Gather emergency supplies for your pet, including a leash and feeding supplies, enough food for several days, and a pet travel carrier.
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Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather.
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Look out for your friends, neighbors, and the elderly during winter weather.
If your power goes out:
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Ensure generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Never burn charcoal indoors or use a gas grill indoors.
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Properly vent kerosene heaters.
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Use battery-powered sources for light, instead of candles, to reduce the risk of fire.
For more information on winter weather safety and preparation, visit ReadyNC.gov .
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