Winter Storm Prompts State of Emergency in North Carolina
On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency across North Carolina as winter weather is expected to disrupt much of the state.
The Governor, alongside key state officials, including Will Ray, Director of Emergency Management, and Joey Hopkins, Secretary of Transportation, held a press briefing to update residents on the storm’s expected impact.
They emphasized the importance of staying informed and taking precautions, as the state braces for snow, ice, and hazardous travel conditions starting Wednesday and lasting through Thursday.
Governor Stein urged North Carolinians to stay vigilant and prepare for potential disruptions, such as power outages and unsafe road conditions.
“Our primary concerns are the possibility of power loss and the safety of travelers,” said the Governor.
With the storm moving in, he advised that residents plan accordingly, ensure their devices are charged, and follow local authorities’ guidance.
Officials are urging all travelers to avoid unnecessary trips once the storm arrives to mitigate the risks of accidents and disruptions.
The winter storm forecast predicts snow accumulations of up to six inches in central and eastern North Carolina, with certain areas seeing as much as nine inches.
The northern mountains could see two to four inches of snow. Additionally, parts of the state are facing the threat of significant ice accumulation, which could weigh down trees and lead to power outages.
As always, weather conditions will evolve, and residents are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts.
The State Emergency Response Team has been activated to coordinate the response efforts, which include support from the North Carolina National Guard and local emergency management teams.
These groups are prepared to deploy quickly to affected areas, ensuring resources are available where needed most. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has already begun pre-treating roads in anticipation of the storm, and their crews are ready to work around the clock to clear snow and ice from state-maintained roads.
For safety, North Carolina Emergency Management officials recommend several key preparedness measures, including stocking up on essentials like non-perishable food and water, ensuring that phones are charged, and staying off the roads whenever possible. Residents are also urged to prepare their vehicles with emergency kits, including items like a scraper, jumper cables, and blankets. To protect pets, ensure they have enough food, and avoid leaving them outside for prolonged periods. In case of power outages, families should take precautions with generators and heating sources to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.
Stay Safe During Winter Weather
As the winter storm approaches, it is critical to stay prepared and informed. For real-time travel updates, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT’s social media channels. Additionally, for power outage information and emergency tips, check out ReadyNC.gov. With careful planning and awareness, North Carolinians can better manage the challenges of winter weather and stay safe throughout the storm.