North Carolina Road conditions: Caution Advised Amid Melting Snow
As North Carolina recovers from major winter storms, officials warn of dangerous road conditions and urge residents to take these steps.
State response and current road conditions
Emergency Management Director Will Ray emphasized the improving conditions but urged continued caution: “We ask that you stay home if you don’t have to be on the roads to allow public safety and transportation personnel to continue their critical work. If you must go out, drive slowly and be cautious of black ice on roads and bridges.”
Governor Josh Stein expressed gratitude to emergency responders, stating: “We are very appreciative of all our first responders, DOT workers, emergency management personnel, and volunteers, as well as all the unsung heroes who work hard to keep North Carolinians safe.”
Transportation & safety efforts
The NCDOT has mounted a massive response, deploying over 2,000 employees and 1,900 vehicles. Their efforts include:
- Spreading more than 36,000 tons of salt on roads
- Pre-treating highways with over 3 million gallons of brine
- Working around the clock to clear roads of snow, ice, and fallen trees
The State Highway Patrol has responded to more than 1,500 collisions and nearly 1,000 additional service calls during the storm. Supporting these efforts, the North Carolina National Guard has positioned over 100 soldiers with 36 vehicles throughout central and western regions, focusing on maintaining access to major interstate highways.
Power outages & ongoing concerns
While power outages peaked at 15,000 during the early morning hours, utility crews have made significant progress, reducing the number to approximately 2,900 homes and businesses by midday Saturday. However, residents should remain vigilant as temperatures are expected to drop below freezing overnight, potentially creating hazardous black ice conditions, particularly in western North Carolina.
Additional snow accumulation of 1-3 inches is expected along the Tennessee border, while other areas may see improvement with breezy and dry conditions facilitating melting. However, the risk of black ice remains a significant concern through Sunday night.
Safety guidelines for residents
Officials recommend the following safety measures:
- Avoid using generators or grills indoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
- Check on vulnerable neighbors, especially elderly or sick individuals
- Monitor pets during cold weather
- Visit ReadyNC.gov for winter weather guidance
- Check DriveNC.gov for current road conditions
- Reserve 911 calls for true emergencies only
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