Governor Stein and Emergency Management officials provide updates on winter storm
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — On Thursday, Governor Josh Stein held a briefing to provide updates and tips as a winter storm approaches the state.
“This weekend’s winter storm is likely to impact most of North Carolina, so please make a plan now to keep yourself and your loved ones safe,” said Governor Stein. “A State of Emergency is in effect, and our State Emergency Response Team is activated and ready to assist impacted communities. The most important thing you can do right now is prepare for potential power outages and have emergency supplies ready.”
Governor Stein was joined by NC Department of Public Safety Secretary Jeff Smythe, NC Department of Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson, NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray, NC State Highway Patrol Colonel Freddy Johnson, and Major General Todd Hunt of the North Carolina National Guard.
Storm impacts could include hazardous driving conditions, damage to tree limbs from ice accumulation, and long-lasting power outages.
On Wednesday, Governor Stein declared a state of emergency. More than 1,600 NCDOT crews and contractors have been pre-treating roads, restocking salt supplies and getting ready for the storm. More than 800,000 gallons of brine has been placed across the state.
“We urge people to get prepared now for what’s shaping up to be a very cold period for our state,” said State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson. “Please don’t try to drive once the storm hits unless it’s necessary. Please protect yourselves, your families and everyone responding to this storm by being patient and playing it safe.”
To prepare for winter weather emergency management officials recommend paying close attention to your local forecast from trusted sources, keep batteries for cell phones charged, dress warmly, have multiple ways to get alerts, store an emergency kit in your vehicle, get emergency supplies for your family and pets, don’t leave pets outdoors for long periods of time, and check on your numbers.
In the event that your power goes out, ensure generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors, never burn charcoal indoors, properly vent kerosene heaters, and use battery powered sources for light.
