Lingering cold after ice storm will cause problems, Josh Stein says :: WRAL.com

Central North Carolina is bracing for a significant ice storm expected to impact travel and potentially disrupt power supply beginning Saturday evening and continuing through Sunday. The forecast centers on the potential for widespread power outages and hazardous road conditions, prompting preparation across school systems and local governments.

Preparing for Impact

As of 11:45 a.m. Saturday, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein stated the state is prepared for the impending storm. However, he cautioned that lingering cold temperatures in the days following the event could prolong hazardous conditions. Governor Stein specifically noted that shaded areas and overpasses are likely to remain icy even after temperatures rise.

Did You Know? Areas near the Virginia line could potentially receive up to one inch of ice accumulation.

The impact is already being felt across the region. Raleigh-Durham International Airport is currently reporting 61 flight cancellations and additional delays. Both Southwest and United Airlines have announced the suspension of flights Saturday afternoon and a complete halt to operations on Sunday.

Airport spokesperson Stephanie Hawko emphasized the importance of checking flight status before traveling, advising passengers to verify their flight’s status via airline apps or the RDU homepage. RDU aims to maintain at least one commercial runway open as long as airlines continue to operate.

Current Conditions and Forecast

At 9:30 a.m., the temperature in the Triangle area was 24 degrees Fahrenheit, but the wind chill made it feel like 10 degrees. WRAL meteorologist Chris Michaels advised residents to return home by 3 or 4 p.m. to avoid deteriorating road conditions as temperatures fall.

While snow is already falling in areas like Beech Mountain, North Carolina, the Triangle region is not expected to experience winter weather until later Saturday. A winter storm warning is in effect for most of the area, while a winter weather advisory covers the Sandhills, where power outages are anticipated to be less severe.

Expert Insight: The potential for prolonged icing, particularly in shaded areas and on overpasses, suggests that even after the initial storm passes, travel conditions could remain hazardous for an extended period.

Potential Disruptions

School systems are already responding to the forecast. Wake County Public School System has a scheduled teacher workday on January 26th for students on a traditional calendar. Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools also has a teacher workday scheduled for Monday. Schools in Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Granville, Johnston, and Orange counties are currently scheduled to remain open.

Even events planned for the weekend are being adjusted. An outdoor peace talk planned by monks passing through Raleigh has been canceled, but the group will proceed with a walk starting at 2 p.m. from Greg Poole Jr. All Faiths Chapel toward the State Capitol, with a gathering at 3:30 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of flights at RDU?

As of 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Raleigh-Durham International Airport is reporting 61 flight cancellations and a handful of delays. Southwest and United Airlines have announced they will stop flights Saturday afternoon and not operate flights on Sunday.

What does Governor Stein say about the state’s preparedness?

Governor Josh Stein stated that the state is prepared for the ice storm, but cautioned that lingering cold temperatures after the storm could prolong hazardous conditions, particularly in shaded areas and on overpasses.

What areas are expected to be most impacted by the ice storm?

Areas from Raleigh north and west could see over a half-inch of ice, with areas near the Virginia line potentially receiving up to one inch. The Sandhills region is expected to see less ice accumulation and therefore less widespread power outages.

How will you prepare for potential disruptions to travel and power this weekend?