North Carolina residents woke up to treacherous conditions Saturday morning as severe weather led to power outages and hazardous roads across the state. Authorities are urging everyone to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary as crews work to restore power and clear roadways.
Power Outages Impact Thousands
The storm has caused widespread power outages, leaving thousands of residents without electricity. As of 8 a.m., Duke Energy reported over 50,000 outages, with the hardest-hit areas including Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro. Crews are working around the clock, but restoration times vary due to ongoing weather challenges.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Icy roads and fallen trees have created perilous driving conditions in several regions. Black ice has been reported on major highways, including I-40 and I-85, leading to multiple accidents overnight. Local authorities are warning drivers to avoid travel unless it’s an emergency.
Some of the most hazardous areas include:
- Wake County: Potholes filled with ice have made roads even more treacherous.
- Durham County: Reports of fallen power lines blocking residential streets.
- Western NC: Snow-covered roads are nearly impassable in higher elevations.
Emergency Crews Respond
State troopers and local law enforcement have been responding to numerous accidents. Emergency services urge residents to call 911 for urgent needs but to avoid tying up lines with non-emergency issues.
“Stay home, stay safe, and give crews the space they need to work,” said a spokesperson for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).
Tips for Staying Safe
If you must travel or experience a power outage, consider the following tips:
- Avoid Driving: Stay off the roads until conditions improve.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, and enough food and water for at least 48 hours.
- Report Issues: Use the NCDOT’s online tools to report road hazards or check conditions.
- Conserve Energy: If you have power, reduce usage to help stabilize the grid for others.
What’s Next?
The National Weather Service forecasts improving conditions later in the day, but caution is still advised. Temperatures are expected to remain low, prolonging icy conditions in some areas. Power restoration efforts are expected to continue through the weekend.
For the latest updates on road conditions, weather alerts, and power outages, visit ReadyNC.gov.
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