Winter Weather Safety Update: Be Prepared, Stay Safe, and Stay Informed
State of Emergency & What to Expect
Today, Governor Josh Stein declared a State of Emergency as North Carolina prepares for a major winter storm expected to impact much of the state this weekend. On Thursday, January 22 at 11:15 a.m., the Governor held a media briefing with state public safety, transportation, emergency management, Highway Patrol, and National Guard leaders to provide updates on storm preparations. Officials caution that roadway conditions may deteriorate early Saturday and remain hazardous for several days due to prolonged subfreezing temperatures, snow, and ice accumulation. Residents are urged to complete preparations now and limit travel unless absolutely necessary.
State Preparedness & Road Conditions
The State Emergency Response Team has been activated ahead of the storm’s arrival to support affected communities. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) crews and contractors have been pre-treating roads, bridges, and overpasses with brine, restocking salt supplies, and preparing equipment. Crews will work around the clock from the mountains to the coast throughout the weekend. Certain transportation regulations have been temporarily waived to improve coordination for emergency response vehicles. Officials stress that avoiding travel once the storm hits helps crews clear roads safely and allows first responders to do their jobs effectively.
How to Prepare Before the Storm
Stay informed by closely monitoring your local forecast and using a NOAA weather radio or trusted weather alert app. Charge cell phones, mobile devices, and spare batteries. Dress warmly by wearing multiple thin layers. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes an ice scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand or salt, blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a road map. Prepare for pets with enough food for several days, leashes, and carriers, and do not leave pets outside for extended periods during freezing weather. Please also check on friends, neighbors, and the elderly who may need assistance.
If Your Power Goes Out
Operate generators outdoors only and away from windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never burn charcoal or use gas grills indoors. Properly vent kerosene heaters. Use battery-powered lights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
Emergency Contacts & Resources
For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. For local assistance, contact your county emergency management office. For winter weather safety and preparedness information, visit ReadyNC.gov. For real-time travel conditions, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.
Sampson County Emergency Management: (910) 592-8996 (Clinton)
Bladen County Emergency Management: (910) 862-6760 (Elizabethtown)
Duplin County Emergency Management: (910) 296-2160 (Kenansville)
Jones County Emergency Management: (252) 448-1221 (Trenton)
Pender County Emergency Management: (910) 259-1210 (Burgaw)
Please take this storm seriously, finish preparations ahead of time, and limit travel this weekend so our first responders and road crews can operate safely. Stay safe, North Carolina.
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