A winter weather warning has been issued for the Triad and High Country, which could bring some snow and ice, depending on the region and the track of the storm.
The National Weather Service in Raleigh issued the warning through midnight Sunday. In the Triad, forecasters are expecting up to three inches of snow and two-tenths to three-tenths of ice accumulation. Gusty winds could also impact the area, making power outages and hazardous travel likely.
In the High Country, heavy snow is predicted with accumulations of 6-12 inches, with locally higher amounts, and possible sleet.
In a press conference Saturday, Governor Cooper urged North Carolinians to be prepared and limit travel. He asked for those who must travel to check drivenc.gov to check conditions. Cooper also says readync.gov has information on how to create an emergency preparedness kit. He says Duke Energy is bringing in extra crews to help out and is activating 10,000 people to help during the storm. He has also has declared a State of Emergency to aid in response.
North Carolina Emergency Management officials recommend the following tips to stay safe during the storm.
This storm is a menace. As much as a foot of snow is expected to fall in the mountains and foothills. In central North Carolina freezing rain and sleet on top of some snow will fall. The eastern part of our state expects heavy rain and flash flooding, plus high wind gusts.
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) January 15, 2022
- Always keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a supply of medication in your home.
- Keep cell phones and mobile devices charged in case of power outages.
- Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights.
- Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.
- Properly vent kerosene heaters and ensure generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never burn charcoal indoors or use a gas grill indoors.
- Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.
- Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit and road map.
- Make an emergency supplies kit for your pet and include medical records, leash and feeding supplies, enough food for several days, and a pet travel carrier.
- Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather.