Winter storm forecast comes into focus for central NC, how to prepare

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- School districts in central North Carolina are sharing their plans ahead of a winter storm, as local horticulturalists share advice on how to stay safe from falling tree limbs.

As the forecast for a winter storm comes into focus, the Triangle continues to get ready for whatever Mother Nature brings to North Carolina.

NCDOT crews began spreading brine on major highways on Wednesday, including on I-440.

Durham Public Schools says the district is working out a plan of action as the storm approaches. The district says it will make recommendations based on the forecasts of the storm.

Horticulturalists from the JC Raulston Arboretum have a warning about the threat posed by falling tree limbs.

Greg Paige, the JC Raulston Arboretum Horticulture Director, says while snow can be dangerous, it only takes a quarter of an inch of ice to cause tree limbs to fall.

"Ice is the biggest concern. It's always a concern because it just adds so much weight. It doesn't allow it to kind of restrict movement a little bit," he said. "So you get some wind mixed in with that. And that's when branches start to snap, lines start to snap."

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Paige says routine maintenance on trees can prevent issues during storms.

"Some of the best things that you can do to prevent your trees from having damage is keep them stress-free. Do regular pruning on them," he said.

Another important piece of advice is not park vehicles under trees as a way to protect them from falling limbs.

The Wake County Public School System said it would be sending out information to parents on Wednesday evening.

ABC11 will share that message once it comes into the newsroom.

DPS is also sharing some snow day learning tips with families, which can be found below.

S.N.O.W. Day Learning Family Tips

For K-5 Families: You do not need to recreate school at home. Simple moments build big skills.

• S: Stay safe & settled
  Start with warmth, routines, and reassurance. If children feel safe and calm, learning follows.
• N: Notice the world together
  Talk about the weather, look out the window, read signs, and ask simple "why" questions.
• O: Open a book (or listen to one)
  Read together for 10-15 minutes. Picture books, magazines, chapter books, or audiobooks all count.
• W: Work in short, playful bursts
  Create breaks in learning with movement and play.

For Grades 6-12 Families: The goal is to help your student stay connected to learning.

• S: Stay safe & organized
  Safety comes first. Help students set up a quiet space and a simple plan for the day.
• N: Navigate responsibilities
  Encourage students to check teacher messages and complete assignments.
• O: Open learning tools if accessible
  Use digital platforms or reading materials already assigned.
• W: Work independently in short blocks
  30-45 minute blocks with breaks help students stay focused without overload.