North Carolina Governor Briefs on Weekend Winter Storm Preparations

Winter Storm Forecast and Warnings

• ❄️ Snowfall between 3 to 8 inches is expected statewide, with potential for 8 to 12 inches in heavier bands, especially across the coastal plain.
• 🥶 Dangerously cold temperatures and strong wind gusts are forecast through the weekend, bringing below zero wind chills, with extreme cold watches in effect for mountainous and Piedmont regions.
• ⚠️ Winter storm warnings will be in effect statewide, with high wind warnings and advisories along the coast, forecasting gusts up to 55-70 MPH.
• 🌊 Coastal flooding and potential overwash, particularly in the Outer Banks, are significant concerns due to high winds.

State and Local Emergency Response

• 🚨 The State Emergency Response Team is activated, supporting commodity distribution with blankets, cots, meals, and water.
• 🏛️ Four local states of emergency and 21 local emergency operations centers are activated or in monitoring status.
• 🤝 Community resources like shelters and warming stations are being opened, with information available on local government websites.

Transportation and Infrastructure Preparedness

• 🚗 NCDOT crews have pre-treated roads with brine and are prepared to plow snow and spread sand/salt, urging the public to stay off roads.
• 🚧 Efforts are underway to clear roadways, respond to emergencies, and assist with transportation needs, with the National Guard deploying force packages.
• ⚡ Power grid coordination is ongoing with energy partners; less concern for widespread outages compared to ice storms, but localized outages are possible with heavy snowfall.
• 📞 911 is for emergencies only; general information can be obtained by calling 211 or checking local emergency management resources.

Safety and Community Support

• 🏠 Residents are urged to finalize preparations and stay home through early next week.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Checking on neighbors, friends, and family, especially those who may need additional support, is crucial.
• 🩺 For western North Carolina, extreme cold and wind chills as low as -20 degrees pose risks of frostbite and hypothermia, requiring proper attire and caution if venturing outdoors.