North Carolina Governor Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm: Updates and Preparations
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of a significant winter storm set to hit the state over the weekend. Stein will provide updates on storm preparations during a media briefing on Thursday at 11:15 a.m. from the State Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh, joined by various state leaders.
The State Emergency Response Team has been activated to assist communities that may be impacted by the approaching winter storm. Transportation officials have been pre-treating roads, bridges, and overpasses with brine, restocking salt supplies, and preparing equipment to ensure safe travel conditions across the state.
With the approval of the Council of State, certain transportation regulations have been waived to facilitate the movement of vehicles supporting emergency response efforts. Residents are urged to finish preparations by Friday evening and limit travel over the weekend as conditions are expected to worsen.
NCDOT Secretary Daniel Johnson emphasized the potential hazardous road conditions early Saturday and advised residents to stay off the roads to allow crews to clear them safely. The storm is expected to bring a mix of precipitation, with lingering impacts due to dangerous wind chills and snow and ice accumulation.
Emergency management officials recommend monitoring local forecasts, keeping phones charged, dressing in layers, and preparing emergency kits for vehicles and homes. Safety precautions for power outages, generator use, and heating sources are also advised to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
For more information on winter weather safety, residents can visit ReadyNC.gov, and real-time travel updates are available at DriveNC.gov. The governor's briefing on Thursday will be livestreamed on social media platforms to keep the public informed about storm preparations and safety measures.