Preparing for the Weekend Winter Storm in Eastern North Carolina

A significant winter storm — including freezing rain, sleet, and icy conditions — is expected to impact Eastern North Carolina this weekend, potentially causing hazardous travel, power outages, and disruptions. The National Weather Service and local forecasts show that freezing rain will be a primary concern, with light snow and sleet possible in some areas, especially inland. 
State of Emergency and Official Alerts
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency ahead of the storm, activating the State Emergency Response Team and urging residents to prepare now for potential impacts.

Officials are pre-treating roads, bridges, and overpasses with brine and coordinating response plans across the state. The governor encouraged people to stay home and avoid travel once the storm begins unless absolutely necessary. ​
At-home readiness includes:

• Filling gas tanks since some stations may lose power
• Pulling small-bill cash in case card systems go down
• Picking up prescriptions and essential medications early
• Downloading offline entertainment and maps
• Identifying a warm room to gather in if heating fails
• Knowing the location of breaker boxes and water shut-offs
• Adjusting refrigerator and freezer to colder settings

Water and Pipe Protection
Winter ice events can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Protect your home by allowing faucets to drip when temperatures drop, opening cabinet doors to circulate warm air, disconnecting outdoor hoses, and insulating outdoor faucets. Fill bottles or containers with water to use for flushing or cleaning if water pressure drops.
Food and Kitchen Preparation
Keep a supply of no-cook or easy meals on hand, including canned goods, bread, crackers, peanut butter, and fruit cups. A manual can opener is essential. Freeze some water bottles to help maintain freezer temperatures, and have a cooler ready in case you need to move perishables outside if it’s cold enough.
Heat and Home Safety

• Gather blankets, warm clothing, and sleeping bags
• Check fireplaces and dry firewood if using one
• Never use grills or generators indoors
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Use flashlights and battery lanterns if available

Vehicle and Travel
Travel can become dangerous quickly with ice on roads and bridges. Plan to avoid driving once freezing rain begins. Keep blankets, water, snacks, phone chargers, and gloves in your vehicle, and top off windshield washer fluid. Park away from large tree limbs when possible, and expect flights and travel disruptions.
Power Outage Planning
Power outages can last through and beyond the storm. Unplug sensitive electronics, keep radios or weather apps available for updates, use surge protectors, and know where local warming centers might be in your area. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve cold air.
Pets and Livestock Care
Bring pets indoors and ensure they have access to unfrozen water. Outdoor animals should have straw or blankets in their shelter to stay warm. Keep leashes and carriers accessible if evacuation becomes necessary.
Medical and Special Needs Considerations
Keep a written list of medications and dosages, store a first-aid kit with basic supplies, and have backup batteries for essential medical devices. Identify locations — such as community centers or family homes — with power in case temporary relocation is needed.
Property Protection
Protect vehicles by parking away from large tree limbs. Secure outdoor furniture and items that could move in strong winds.
During the Storm
Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Treat all downed lines as dangerous. Use only safe indoor heating options and check on neighbors by phone, especially elderly or vulnerable people. Report power outages to utility companies rather than emergency services unless there is an imminent safety threat.

As this storm moves through Eastern North Carolina, please take care of yourself, your family, and your neighbors. Preparation, patience, and staying informed can make all the difference during challenging weather. Above all, stay safe, stay warm, and don’t hesitate to check in on those who may need a little extra support.

Wishing you safety and peace throughout the storm,
Patty Lisa

---