As Raleigh braces for a significant winter storm, local authorities have issued a winter storm watch, expecting heavy snowfall and strong winds starting tomorrow afternoon and continuing through the weekend. According to the city's official announcement, central North Carolina should prepare for 5 to 8 inches of snow, accompanied by wind gusts reaching 25 to 35 mph, which may lead to power outages and make travel precarious or potentially impossible due to hazardous road conditions.
The City of Raleigh's website indicates there are no current impacts to city services but advises residents to stay tuned for updates; authorities are also urging citizens to check on potential cancellations or postponements of specific events and meetings through their Events feed. In anticipation of this winter weather event, set to commence on January 30 at 1 p.m. and expected to last until February 1 at 4 p.m., the forecasts details of which are accessible from the National Weather Service - Raleigh website, emergency shelters, known as White Flag Shelters, have been prepped for activation for those in need of a warm place to stay during the cold snap.
In light of the upcoming conditions, Raleigh's government has issued guidelines on how to stay informed, including signing up for Ready Wake Alerts and following various official Twitter accounts for emergency updates, such as @RaleighGov for general updates, @RaleighPolice for traffic updates, and @DukeEnergy for power updates. For immediate attention in emergency situations such as downed power lines or obstructed roads, citizens are instructed to call 911, while non-emergencies, such as trees downed not involving power lines or obstructing roadways, should be reported to 919-829-1911.
Resources are also readily available for those confronted by housing crises or homelessness during this time, the city's website provides a comprehensive list of resources, including hot meals, warm clothing, and housing assistance. With the potent mix of heavy snowfall and strong winds heralding possible infrastructure disruptions and sporadic power outages, Raleigh's officials emphasize preparedness as they roll out resources for heating safety, emergency preparedness, how to properly use road salt and to protect water from pollution.
