Winter Storm Threatens Central North Carolina This Weekend

Central North Carolina is bracing for a potentially major winter storm this weekend, as officials, meteorologists, and community members mobilize to prepare for what could be one of the most significant weather events of the season. With forecasts calling for a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, the region is on high alert, and residents are being urged to take every precaution ahead of the storm’s arrival.

According to the National Weather Service, most or all of central North Carolina—including the Triangle—can expect wintry precipitation starting as early as Friday night, January 23, 2026, and lasting through Sunday evening, January 25. The winter storm watch, issued on January 21, covers Wake, Durham, Orange, Johnston, and Chatham counties, as well as other parts of the Piedmont and central and northern Coastal Plain. Meteorologist Brandon Dunstan told The News & Observer, “It’s a little too far out to tell you, OK, we know how much snow is going to occur. We just know we’re going to have a very good potential for some impacts from a winter storm this weekend. When I say impacts, we’re going to have some potential for snow, freezing rain and sleet across the area.”

Forecast models are showing a larger area with mixed ice and sleet, rather than just snow, and there is plenty of cold air and moisture in place for heavy precipitation. The timing and amounts may shift as the weekend approaches, but the consensus is clear: hazardous conditions are likely, and preparation is essential.

Temperatures are expected to plummet, compounding the risks. Highs in the Triangle are forecasted to remain in the 20s on Saturday and Sunday, with nighttime lows in the teens. By Monday night, January 26, temperatures could dip into the single digits. National Weather Service meteorologist Nick Petro in Raleigh warned, “It’s going to be dangerously cold, especially after the storm, with wind chills, possibly below zero.” The arctic cold front moving through late Friday will bring not only precipitation but also frigid, lingering air, making it harder for accumulated snow and ice to melt.

Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency for North Carolina on Wednesday, January 21, ahead of the storm’s anticipated arrival. In a statement, Stein urged, “A winter storm is approaching, and now is the time to prepare. Please get ready. Get everything you need in advance of the storm and have a plan in case your power goes out. I encourage all North Carolinians to stay home and off the roads this weekend unless absolutely necessary so first responders can do their jobs safely and effectively.” The governor’s office also announced a media briefing for Thursday morning, with leaders from the Department of Public Safety, Emergency Management, and the National Guard scheduled to provide updates from the State Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh.

The State Emergency Response Team has been activated to assist affected communities. Transportation officials reported that crews have been working around the clock, pre-treating major highways, roads, bridges, and overpasses with brine, restocking salt supplies, and preparing snow removal equipment. NCDOT Secretary Daniel Johnson emphasized, “From the mountains to the coast, our crews are already out brining roads and bridges ahead of the winter storm. We’re asking everyone to do their part to prepare now and avoid travel once the storm hits so crews can safely clear the roads.”

To further facilitate emergency response, Governor Stein directed the waiver of certain transportation regulations, allowing vehicles supporting relief efforts to move more efficiently across the state. Will Ray, director of North Carolina Emergency Management, stated, “The State Emergency Response Team is working closely with local partners statewide … to ensure that needed resources are provided to support impacted communities.” Residents are strongly urged to finish preparations by Friday evening and to monitor local forecasts closely for the latest information.

For families with children, school districts are taking steps to communicate plans and support learning during potential closures. Durham Public Schools is preparing a plan of action based on storm forecasts and has shared snow day learning tips with families. For K-5 families, the advice is simple: “You do not need to recreate school at home. Simple moments build big skills.” For grades 6-12, the focus is on helping students stay connected to learning. The Wake County Public School System planned to send information to parents on Wednesday evening, ensuring families are informed and ready for any disruptions.

Horticulturalists from the JC Raulston Arboretum have also weighed in, warning that even a quarter inch of ice can cause tree limbs to fall, posing risks to property and power lines. Greg Paige, the Arboretum’s Horticulture Director, explained, “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. So you get some wind mixed in with that. And that’s when branches start to snap, lines start to snap.” Paige recommends routine tree maintenance and urges residents not to park vehicles under trees during the storm.

State and local officials are echoing the message: avoid unnecessary travel once the storm begins. Roadway conditions could become hazardous early Saturday and stay dangerous for several days due to sustained subfreezing temperatures. The Department of Transportation and first responders need clear roads to address emergencies and restore services. If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists are advised to keep a disaster kit and extra warm clothes in the car, drive slowly, leave ample space between vehicles, and be particularly cautious on bridges and overpasses, which can freeze quickly. If trapped in a vehicle, officials recommend pulling off the road, signaling for help, and taking precautions to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning—such as opening a window slightly if the engine is running for warmth.

Power outages are a significant concern, especially from late Saturday through Sunday night, as ice accumulation could bring down tree branches and power lines. Residents are encouraged to keep mobile phones and chargers ready, maintain a list of emergency contacts, and stock up on supplies including flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, water (one gallon per person per day), medications, pet supplies, fire extinguishers, rock salt, sand for traction, and snow shovels. Emergency management officials stress the importance of safe generator and heating source use to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Community groups have also mobilized, with mutual aid organizations in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area collecting winter storm supplies for the homeless, such as tents, sleeping bags, coats, and hand warmers. Meanwhile, a group of Buddhist monks undertaking a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace will be passing through the Triangle this week. They have assured supporters that they are prepared for the cold and will seek shelter if necessary.

As central North Carolina prepares for a weekend of potentially severe winter weather, the message from officials, experts, and neighbors is clear: take the warnings seriously, make preparations now, and stay safe as the storm unfolds.