Snowstorm leads to extreme cold, closed schools, businesses, travel dangers in NC | Live Updates

Governor Josh Stein shared updates Sunday on North Carolina's response to this weekend's snowstorm, emphasizing ongoing road hazards.

"While the storm has passed, the snow remains and our roads will remain dicey in the days ahead," he said. "Please continue to avoid unnecessary travel and use caution if you must drive."

Snow in eastern North Carolina is expected to end by mid-morning, with dry conditions following. However, gusty winds up to 25-30 mph are forecast statewide, with stronger gusts of 55-60 mph along the coast and 40-55 mph in the mountains. Highs will only reach the 20s and 30s, with wind chills in the single digits to teens.

Coastal flooding and ocean overwash are also possible, with portions of NC Highway 12 potentially impassable at high tide.

State officials urged residents to stay off roads to allow first responders and NCDOT crews to work safely. Over 2,500 NCDOT employees and contractors have been clearing roads since Saturday, spreading over 15,000 tons of salt and prioritizing interstates and major highways. However, snow-clearing efforts are expected to take several days due to persistent cold temperatures.

Watch full press conference

Duke Energy is urging customers to help ease the strain on the electric grid by reducing energy use Monday morning between 4 and 10 a.m. This move aims to lower demand and avoid the need for temporary power outages.

Here's how you can pitch in:

• Set your thermostat to the lowest comfortable level.
• Hold off on using major appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers during that time.
• Switch off unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins, and lights.
• If you own an electric vehicle, charge it midday when demand is lower.

"We know it's inconvenient to reduce electric use, but it makes a real difference." said Gerald Wilson, Duke Energy vice president of grid operations. "We are taking every step to meet our customers energy needs, including maximizing our generation and purchasing power and working with large commercial and industrial customers who have demand response programs. We appreciate our customers' cooperation, patience and understanding as we work to maintain reliable service across the Carolinas."

In Knightdale, NCDOT closed Hodge Road in both directions from Jenny Circle to Old Faison Road. This will help ensure public safety and allow road crews and first responded to work efficiently.

Drivers are encouraged to:

• Refrain from traveling unless absolutely necessary
• Use alternate routes when possible
• Allow extra travel time
• Exercise caution on all roads due to ongoing icy conditions

GoTriangle and GoTriangle Access will suspend services on Sunday, Feb. 1, resuming with a delayed start at noon on Monday.

GoDurham and GoDurham Access have also suspended transit service.

Durham officials stated, "Officials are actively monitoring weather and roadway conditions and will provide updates regarding the resumption of service as soon as it is safe to do so."

WATCH: Durham crews battle snow to clear roads

Our Akilah Davis has more.

Chapel Hill Transit will not operate on Sunday. Parks and Recreation, Chapel Hill Public Library, and the book drop are closed as well.