Winter weather set to hit this weekend, residents urged to prepare now

PENDER COUNTY, N.C. (WWAY) — Winter weather is expected to move into the region Saturday. Pender County Emergency Management are urging residents to prepare now. The National Weather Service forecasts sleet and freezing rain beginning Saturday night and continuing into Sunday, creating hazardous travel conditions and the potential for power outages across the region.

Preparing now can help protect families, pets, and property as freezing temperatures and icy conditions extend into this weekend and through next week.

Residents are encouraged to take the following safety actions:

• Restock or update emergency kits to ensure essential supplies are ready before conditions worsen.
• Keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food on hand to avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous weather.
• Use rock salt or ice‑melt products to keep walkways clear and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
• Create or review family communication plans in case power or cell service is disrupted.
• Avoid travel whenever possible during winter storms due to dangerous road conditions.
• If travel is necessary, use extreme caution and allow extra time.
• Check on older adults to ensure they have heat, food, medications and working flashlights.
• Keep a close eye on children, especially when playing outdoors. Limit time in the cold and make sure they’re dressed in warm layers.
• Bring pets indoors to protect them from freezing temperatures.
• Move outdoor animals to sheltered areas and ensure they have access to unfrozen drinking water.
• Never use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors for heating or cooking. These devices produce toxic fumes that can be deadly.

Download the Pender County Emergency Management App. Visit your phone’s app store, search for Pender County EM and allow notifications to receive emergency alerts, weather updates and important safety information.