NC braces for winter storm; roads are big concern, Gov. Stein and emergency officials say

Due to the anticipated impacts of the winter storm, Blue Cross NC is allowing early prescription refills for customers in all 100 NC counties until Jan. 19.

This comes after Governor Stein declared a state of emergency Thursday.

Requests must be made while the State of Emergency declaration is still in effect, the health insurance company said Friday. The policy also does not apply to controlled substances.

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Preparation is the name of the game because it has been a while since we had a measurable snowfall in the area, so folks are stocking up on snacks and supplies to just stay inside.

Some shoppers say they don't know what to expect as central North Carolina could see snow, sleet and freezing rain.

"I can remember when I was a kid, it snowed every winter but see, like like two or three or four or five years, we hadn't had much snow. Oh, it's bad rain here because people are not used to it."

ABC11 also stopped by a local hardware store and the owner says ice melt hand warmers, gloves, and a de-icer for car windshields have been in demand.

Governor Josh Stein and emergency officials will hold a briefing Friday morning about the state's response to the upcoming winter storm and what you can expect.

The briefing will start at 11:30 a.m.

The briefing will start at 11:30 a.m.

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.