North Carolina Governor Josh Stein Declares State of Emergency Ahead Of Major Winter Storm
RALEIGH, N.C. – North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has officially declared a state of emergency ahead of a potent winter storm expected to hit the state this weekend. The declaration empowers state agencies to coordinate emergency response efforts, protect residents, and mobilize resources as hazardous conditions unfold.
Governor Stein’s emergency order activates the State Emergency Response Team and allows state agencies to work alongside local governments, emergency responders, and the National Guard. Residents are urged to prepare now, stock up on essentials, and limit travel once winter precipitation begins.
“A winter storm is approaching, and now is the time to prepare,” Stein said. “Please get ready. Get everything you need in advance of the storm and have a plan in case your power goes out.”
Western North Carolina
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Mountain communities and foothills could see snow accumulations ranging from 1″ to 6″ or more, with winter storm watches already in effect for Western North Carolina counties.
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Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate early Saturday, especially across Asheville, Boone, Blowing Rock, and surrounding high-elevation areas, where colder temperatures could produce heavier snow totals and icy roadways.
Central North Carolina
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The Piedmont region, including the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) and the Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point), could see a mix of wintry precipitation — notably sleet and freezing rain — leading to slick roads and travel disruptions.
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Ice accumulation may present one of the biggest hazards, particularly south and east of Interstate 40, where freezing rain poses a risk for power line damage and tree limbs falling.
Eastern North Carolina
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Although forecast confidence continues to evolve, models increasingly show a wintry mix pushing into eastern parts of the state, including Greenville, New Bern, and the Inner Banks, with potential for sleet and freezing rain.
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Coastal and near-coastal counties may also experience hazardous travel conditions if precipitation shifts toward freezing rain or snow.
State & Local Agencies Ramping Up Preparations
With the storm expected Saturday through Monday, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has been pre-treating roads, bridges, and overpasses with brine and restocking salt supplies across the state — from the mountains to the coast.
Officials from the Department of Public Safety, State Highway Patrol, and North Carolina National Guard will join the governor for a media briefing to update the public on response plans and readiness.
Under the emergency declaration, North Carolina’s price gouging protections are now active, making it illegal for businesses to charge excessively high prices for essential goods during the emergency period. Residents are encouraged to report suspected price gouging to the NC Department of Justice
Residents can find real-time travel updates through DriveNC.gov and safety guidance at ReadyNC.gov.
