Winter storm hits Central North Carolina, bringing ice and sleet

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Last updated: Thursday, January 29, 2026 10:53AM GMT
NC Winter Storm

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Several weather alerts, including a Winter Storm Warning, remain in effect until Monday afternoon.

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Saturday night, in Central NC, moderate to heavy mixed precipitation, mainly sleet and freezing rain started falling.

WATCH: Winter Weather Special

Your guide for making sure you are prepared for inclement weather as another winter storm approaches.

Most people awoke Sunday to the roads covered with the wintry mix.

Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, remain slick and hazardous.

Duke Energy had 18,000 workers staged across the Carolinas to respond to power outages.

Most school districts across central NC have already made decisions about how to handle Monday's snow day.

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Jan 25, 2026, 3:35 AM GMT

National Guard activated to assist during winter storm

The North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) has mobilized resources across eastern, central, and western North Carolina in preparation to assist Emergency Management during the winter storm.

According to a news release sent by the NCNG, 454 personnel have been actived and 179 vehicles of all types will be used if necessary.

The mobilization includes

  • NCNG teams equipped with High Mobility Multipurpose Wheel Vehicles capable of traversing hazardous conditions to augment emergency responders.
  • Distribution teams to rapidly provide equipment and critical supplies to staging locations, ensuring continuity of communications and a sustained response effort.
  • Maintenance and recovery teams capable of assisting the Department of Transportation.

The North Carolina National Guard supports local partners with shelter operations and more during the winter storm. (Photo by Sgt. Brittany Burton)
The North Carolina National Guard supports local partners with shelter operations and more during the winter storm. (Photo by Sgt. Brittany Burton)

The NCNG is assisting in ways beyond the physical space. Protecting and defending North Carolina's digital infrastructure during natural disasters is a priority that has emerged since Hurricane Helene.

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Jan 25, 2026, 2:30 AM GMT

In case of power outages, Duke Energy brings in extra manpower

Duke Energy has positioned 18,000 workers across 20 sites in the Carolinas as it prepares for possible power outages from the winter storm.

Crews started arriving in the parking lot at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek late Friday and have been positioned with equipment ready to respond as needed. Jeff Brooks with Duke Energy said there are 1,000 workers at this site.

Duke Energy has positioned 18,000 workers across 20 sites in the Carolinas as it prepares for possible power outages from the winter storm.

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SEE ALSO | How long does food last in refrigerator and freezer after a power outage?

Jan 25, 2026, 2:11 AM GMT

State of Emergency declared in Durham County

Durham County has declared a State of Emergency ahead of the winter storm expected Saturday night through Monday morning.

"The latest forecasting indicates we will experience hazardous travel conditions, downed trees, and power outages during this period. The county encourages all of our residents to prepare accordingly and use caution until the event has passed," Chair Dr. Mike Lee said.

At this time, no specific restrictions are included in the declaration.

You can read the declaration here.

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Jan 25, 2026, 1:27 AM GMT

NCDHHS offers tips to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is cautioning people not to use gasoline-powered generators or tools, outdoor grills and camp stoves in enclosed spaces.

These devices should be used outside only and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and air vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency ahead of the winter weather.

Other tips to stay safe:

  • Never use the stove or other gas appliances to heat your home.
  • Do not idle your car, truck or other vehicle in the garage, even if the garage door to the outside is open.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance. If used correctly, these detectors can save lives by alerting people to increasing levels of carbon monoxide in the home.
  • Keep rooms well ventilated.

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