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What to know about the incoming winter storm

Read up on weather predictions, power outages + travel and safety tips as a winter storm approaches the Charlotte region.

A stretch of road in Charlotte is covered in white dusting of snow.

Charlotte’s last substantial snowfall happened back in January 2022.

Photo via WCNC

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Bundle up. Wintry weather is coming to the Queen City. With a chance for snow and ice in Charlotte, we want to make sure you’re prepared for what’s to come.

A state of emergency is in effect for the Charlotte region.

FTW-winterweathermap-gif

The Carolinas have seen several winter storms this season.

Giphy courtesy of NOAA

🔌 Utilities

Duke Energy activated emergency response protocols, positioning teams to respond to any outages and ice accumulation.

If you lose power, you can report the outage through Duke’s website, text OUT to 57801, call 800-769-3766 and track current power outages. Check the NWS’s tips for staying safe.

With freezing temperatures, there’s a potential for frozen pipes. Charlotte Water recommends taking steps to prepare your pipes now.

Public trees are maintained by the city’s Landscape Management group. Should trees or limbs fall near you, call 911 immediately. If it’s not an emergency, call 311 or use the CLT+ mobile app.

An American Airlines plane getting de-iced by four trucks on an airport runway.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport has 40 snow removal and de-icing vehicles in place for the winter storm.

Photo via Charlotte Douglas International Airport

🚙 Travel

For anyone traveling through Charlotte Douglas International Airport, keep an eye on your flight status. The airport is prepping snow teams and nearly 40 snow removal and de-icing vehicles before the winter weather arrives. Watch how they work.

If traveling by car, NCDOT and Charlotte DOT is brining roads and will continue to monitor conditions, updating this map with snow and ice conditions. They recommend traveling cautiously or staying home.

If you plan to hit the road, be on the lookout for black ice. The US Forest Service posted these tips on how to navigate the roads safely.

🛒 Grocery stores

Stores like Harris Teeter and Food Lion should remain open through the storm. Be sure to call your local stores if you’re unsure.

Duke Energy and the NWS suggest purchasing bottled water and nonperishable food just in case ice knocks the power out.

🌡️ Warming centers

Charlotte-area homeless shelters will be increasing capacity + CATS will be transporting individuals to these shelters free of charge.

🧩 Indoor activity ideas

Consider spending time indoors by reading, catching up on your favorite shows, watching a movie, or finding new local podcasts.

If you feel its safe to drive, consider visiting local museums, movie theaters, bowling alleys, and restaurants.

If you plan to head to any events or businesses around the Queen City, check the establishment’s social media account for updates.

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