Central North Carolina preps for winter storm expected to bring snow, sleet this weekend

Gov. Josh Stein declared a statewide State of Emergency on Thursday in advance of the impending winter storm.

He urged people across North Carolina to prepare for cold temperatures, snow, and ice.

"This storm will likely bring significant impacts from snow, sleet, and freezing rain in different parts of the state," Stein said. "North Carolinians should pay close attention to their local weather forecast, make sure they are prepared with what they need at home before Friday afternoon, and stay home if possible as ice on the roadways will likely create dangerous driving conditions."

Stein activated state resources to set into motion a cross-agency storm response ahead of the storm's arrival Friday morning and enable the potential of federal reimbursement if the event qualifies.

"State emergency officials are monitoring the situation and are prepared to assist the counties and municipalities if needed," said Will Ray, NC Emergency Management Director. "Residents across the state should be prepared to shelter in place. If the power goes out, be sure to operate generators outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning."

A Winter Storm Watch has been extended for much of the mountains, the Piedmont, and portions of eastern North Carolina beginning on Friday morning. Heavy snowfall is possible, with estimated snow accumulations of 3-7 inches.

VisitReadyNC.govfor more information on winter weather safety and preparation.

For real-time travel information, visitDriveNC.gov.

The City of Goldsboro said its offices will close at 3 p.m. Friday for nonessential staff ahead of expected severe winter weather.

Get the latest weather information here

All Town of Garner facilities will close Friday at 3 p.m.

Facilities will remain closed all day Saturday, with programming canceled Friday evening through Saturday.

Parks will be closed Saturday until Public Works crews are able to assess conditions and determine that they are safe to reopen.

The Public Works Streets Division has been brining the roads throughout town, but motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and, if conditions deteriorate, stay off the roads altogether if possible.

Residents can check GarnerNC.gov for more information.

With the winter storm approaching, Fayetteville the city is preparing for the effects of the expected wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain.

City street crews began applying brine to city-owned parking lots and bridges Wednesday morning and will continue treating roads through Friday afternoon, along with NCDOT. City crews will be on standby throughout the storm.

Recycling and household waste will start collections as early as 5:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 10. No yard waste will be collected. Yard waste is set to resume as normal next week.

FAST services will end at 5 p.m. on Friday. Starting Saturday through Sunday, FAST services will begin at 10 a.m. and end at 5 p.m.

Passengers who are traveling with the Fayetteville Regional Airport are encouraged to contact their airline directly for any questions on travel and/or flight schedules.

Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads, if possible, and if not, be extra cautious while driving. Driving at posted speeds could be extremely dangerous when snow and ice are on the road. Many vehicles lose traction, especially at higher speeds resulting in serious accidents and vehicle rollovers.