Whiteville ready for winter storm, aftermath

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Since yesterday,Emergency Management crews have been salting the area and the DOT has finished brining the roads in the entire county.

They also met with police, the fire department and public works. They have completed their staffing as well to deal with any scenario.

Among all their weather worries, one thing sticks out the most.

“Our biggest worry is ice,” Emergency Manager Hal Lowder said. “The snow’s going to be an issue but ice is a really big issue. Power is also a big issue. So if we get some nice fluffy snow, it’s not too heavy and we don’t have any trees coming down and the power stays on, we’re going to be all right.”

Hal Lowder also advises the people of Whiteville to stay home if they can and try to avoid driving due to the possible road conditions.

While many schools in the Cape Fear Region cancelled classes today, some schools, like Whiteville Primary and High School dismissed students early.

Parents and grandparents lined to pick students up an hour before dismissal. Many said they are happy with the steps taken by Whiteville schools.

They also said this allowed them to get prepared for the weather, by getting groceries and spreading salt.

Many of them added they’re excited for the snow.

“We don’t get it that often,” Joyce Inman said. “So when we do, everybody I think, even adults get excited.”

“I’m a big kid,” James Louis said. “So I want to play in some snow. I haven’t seen any snow in years here. But I want to see some snow.”

Others say even though they are making preparations, the snow isn’t making them worry and they believe things will be handled properly.

Speaking of preparations, people throughout the area were gearing up today for inclement weather. From salt, to buying food, the preparations didn’t stop.

Many are worried about road conditions and have noticed DOT trucks spreading brine and preparing roads in anticipation of snow and ice.

People also spread salt in their own driveways and on sidewalks to avoid any build up.

Most are just hoping everyone will be safe and that the snow won’t stay long.

“I am worried about that,” Whiteville Resident Suzanne Hall said. “I’m worried it is going to stay longer. In years past, when we do get our three flakes per year, we’ve had warm days and so it doesn’t stick on the roads. But its been so cold beforehand, that I’m afraid what falls is going to stay.”

Throughout Whiteville, many were heading out to grocery stores to to stock up on supplies.