Winter storm hits Central North Carolina, bringing ice and sleet

The Town of Clayton declared a State of Emergency starting Saturday at 5 p.m.

"This declaration allows us to mobilize resources, coordinate response efforts, and ensure our teams are ready to respond as conditions evolve," said Town of Clayton Mayor Jody McLeod. "We encourage residents to prepare now and take this storm seriously."

According to the news release, town crews have been actively preparing throughout the week for the upcoming winter storm by treating roadways, staging equipment and coordinating response plans for power outages, travel conditions and emergency needs.

Governor Stein provided updates and guidance Saturday morning on the upcoming winter storm.

"As winter weather reaches you in North Carolina today, please stay home and off the roads unless absolutely necessary," he said. "Be prepared for potential power outages, and make sure you have a plan to stay warm and in contact with loved ones. I'm grateful to North Carolina's first responders and emergency management officials who are already doing all they can to keep us safe through the storm.

Stein said his request for emergency declaration was approved.

This will enable the state to access federal assets to deploy additional generators to critical facilities like hospitals, support sheltering operations, provide emergency food, water and fuel, and receive support from the Forest Service to remove downed trees.

Watch full news conference

On Friday night, in anticipation of the incoming winter storm, Governor Stein requested an Emergency Declaration from President Trump to unlock federal resources needed to support vulnerable North Carolinians.

Tips from North Carolina Emergency Management officials:

• Pay close attention to your local forecast and be prepared for what's expected in your area.
• Keep cell phones, mobile devices, and spare batteries charged.
• Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.
• Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.
• Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, and road map.
• Gather emergency supplies for your pet, including leash and care supplies, enough food for several days, and a pet travel carrier.
• Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather.
• Look out for your friends, neighbors, and the elderly during winter weather.

If your power goes out:

• Ensure generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Never burn charcoal indoors or use a gas grill indoors.
• Properly vent kerosene heaters.
• Use battery-powered sources for light, instead of candles, to reduce the risk of fire.

Johnston County declared a State of Emergency Saturday morning.

"County officials and Emergency Services staff encourage residents to continue preparing for potential power outages, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor weather conditions closely to stay informed throughout the weather event," the county said in an email.

The following White Flag shelters are in place for people in need during extreme cold conditions:

Street Reach of Johnston County
(919) 912-9854
Receiving hours begin at 2:00 p.m. today

Smithfield Rescue Mission
(919) 205-1977

The Salvation Army
(470) 753-6439
Receiving hours begin today

County-facilitated shelter
600 M. Durwood Stephenson Parkway
Smithfield, NC
Opens at 1 p.m. today

The Johnston County Emergency Operations Center will be activated today at noon to coordinate storm response and support partner agencies. Upon activation, residents with non-emergency questions related to the storm may call (919) 989-5400.

Governor Josh Stein posted on X, saying the White House has approved his request for an Emergency Declaration.

"We are grateful for their partnership and quick response," he wrote. "Rest assured, at the state level, we are coordinating with officials at the local and federal levels to ensure we are doing everything we can to weather this storm and keep you safe."