North Carolina Governor Josh Stein on Winter Storm Preparedness and Response

Winter Storm Preparedness Briefing

• ❄️ North Carolina is preparing for a significant winter storm expected to impact the majority of the state starting tomorrow and lasting into next week.
• ⚠️ The storm is forecast to bring snow, sleet, ice, freezing rain, and bitterly cold temperatures, causing major disruptions.
• 🚨 Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources and activated the state emergency response team.

State Response and Resources

• 🛣️ The NC DOT has pre-treated roads with 2.8 million gallons of brine and is prepared to salt and plow.
• 💧 Pallets of meals and drinking water have been distributed statewide, and local warming centers are opening.
• ⚡ Duke Energy has brought in over 18,000 workers to assist with power restoration.
• 🛡️ The North Carolina National Guard has prepositioned 95 force packages with approximately 430 personnel and 170 vehicles to assist with road clearing and other needs.
• 🌲 The North Carolina Forest Service has six task forces on standby for clearing roadways.

Key Concerns and Recommendations

• 🚗 Unsafe travel and prolonged power outages are the greatest concerns due to expected ice accumulation and cold temperatures.
• 💡 Residents are advised to stay informed, prepare disaster supplies for 3-5 days, and make a plan for power outages.
• 🚫 Staying off the roads is crucial for personal safety and to allow emergency crews to work.
• 🥶 Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing for the next seven days, posing a risk of black ice.

Communication and Lessons Learned

• 📡 The state is in close coordination with communication providers, monitoring network impacts and preparing for potential outages and increased demand.
• 📻 Battery-operated radios are recommended for staying informed if modern communication means are disrupted.
• 🛠️ Lessons learned from previous storms have led to investments in redundant communication systems, including satellite-based technologies and radio caches.
• 📞 911 should only be used for emergencies; for general information, call 211 or check local government websites.

Community Support and Access

• ❤️ Residents are urged to check on loved ones, neighbors, and vulnerable individuals.
• 🤝 The state emphasizes that shelters and warming stations are open to all, with a focus on ensuring everyone's safety during the cold weather.