Some families staying put, some leaving town to escape the winter storm

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- It's a mad rush to grab supplies as a massive winter storm is crossing the country and headed straight for North Carolina.

The first stop for storm preps was the hardware store, where shoppers grabbed what was left.

"I'm picking up batteries," said one shopper.

"I went and bought a generator," another shopper said.

Patricia Wiles Mills is playing it safe and staying put during the storm.

"We're not going anywhere. We're going to stay right in the house," she said

Wiles stopped by the hardware store to pick up a self for her grandson and picked up a few things to restock her emergency kit.

"I got a portable charger, and then I got a charger in my truck, and I got some wood in my truck, and I got some lighters. I got water and I got nonperishable snacks, and I got an emergency kit," she continued.

Other shoppers decided to get creative with their storm preparations since hot items like ice melt is becoming increasingly hard to find. "I'm going to put tarps on my steps so they don't freeze and I don't slide when I take my dog out for a walk," said Mary Carey.

SEE ALSO | Pet owners warned to plan ahead, as winter weather approaches

As the storm grows closer, so do the concerns for many. They're taking their questions to AI, hoping ChatGPT can help with questions about generators, fireplaces, and food.

Others are turning to another online source, Google Flights, to escape the winter weather.

A Holly Springs couple is Miami-bound.

"We dropped my daughter off with her mom, her daughter off with her dad, and said, Hey, you know what? Let's get out of town from the storm. Away from the storm. And then we just parked it and got the last two tickets," said Chris Kanout.

Another family is setting sail on their first cruise as a family of three.

"We kept postponing our trip. And then it landed on this weekend, and we're actually going on a cruise to the Bahamas, " said Haripriya Kazipt.

"We're flying to Florida today. So our cruise is tomorrow. So luckily, we are getting away from the storm from North Carolina this weekend," she continued.

Perfect timing for anyone who doesn't like cold and has options.

Download the ABC11 App to get breaking news and weather alerts.