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.
