Preparations underway in the Cape Fear for possible winter weather impact
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY-TV) – Multiple agencies across North Carolina are preparing ahead of a winter storm expected to impact our state this weekend.
While there are some uncertainties about how it will impact the Cape Fear, the North Carolina Department of Transportation has begun treating local roadways.
The NCDOT began mobilizing their salt crew on Thursday and will continue sending crews out through Friday.
“The priority would be all the major routes certainly interstates, US, NC,” said Jessi Leonard, assistant division maintenance engineer at NCDOT.
Leonard said they are prioritizing Interstate 40, I-140, Highway 74 and Highway 76. Leonard said with the potential for ice impacts in the region, they are also preparing for the possibility of downed trees and power lines that could cause power outages.
Leonard said if and when winter weather hits, drivers should avoid driving in icy conditions.
“But if it’s absolutely necessary be careful, if you see our equipment just give us some space and some patience while we’re doing the work to get the roads treated,” Leonard said.
On Wednesday, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency across the state to prepare for the storm. He said for many they will see ice instead of snow.
“Whether you find yourself facing ice or snow we’ve all got to be prepared for whatever impacts may come,” Stein said.
Stein said they have activated the state emergency response team.
“That includes the department of transportation, the department of public safety, the North Carolina National Guard, the State Highway Patrol and our states utilities,” Stein said.
Stein said their greatest concern is possible power outages following potential ice accumulation. He is encouraging residents to keep their devices charged, have a flash light, battery operated radio and food and water on hand.
“Think about what you may need to stay warm and fed if you lose power,” Stein said.
Jason Fuller, senior emergency management specialist at New Hanover County said while there are uncertainties about how this weather event will impact the county, they are on stand-by.
“We have on-call personnel 24/7, so we’re always ready to respond if something does happen,” Fuller said.
Fuller said residents should keep themselves up-to-date with the latest forecasts and any impending weather impact.
“Until they know for sure what those forecasts are I would just be prepared for the worst and hope for the best,” Fuller said.
Fuller and NCDOT said now is the time to go out and get groceries or any necessities in preparation for potential weather impact.
