Governor Urges Public to Remain Cautious Due to Frigid Temperatures and More Black Ice | Eastern North Carolina Now

News Release:

    Raleigh, N.C.     Governor Pat McCrory has lifted the State of Emergency issued in advance of this week's winter storm.

    However, state agencies, such as the Highway Patrol, the National Guard, Emergency Management and the Department of Transportation officials will remain vigilant to provide for the public safety as frigid temperatures enter the state during the next few days.

    The governor again thanked North Carolinians for staying off the roads and cautioned them to be prepared for continuing cold weather and refreezing road conditions.

    "We've had a good day with plentiful sunshine which has helped with our road situation, but we are not out of the woods yet," said Governor McCrory. "With bitter cold temperatures returning, refreezing will be a problem this evening and throughout the night."

    State agencies have been working throughout the day to clear roads and ensure that motorists are safe. State Highway Patrol troopers along with nearly 100 law enforcement officers from Alcohol Law Enforcement, N.C. Wildlife and NCDMV License and Theft patrolled highways and assisted stranded motorists.

    NCDOT crews worked throughout the day spreading salt, plowing and treating trouble spots on North Carolina's roadways. Interstates and primary routes were the first focus.

    "We are working as diligently as we can to clear the remaining primary roads and will focus on two-lane roads and secondary roads throughout the day tomorrow," said Transportation Secretary Tony Tata.

    However, slick conditions and black ice remain a concern, even on routes that have already been cleared.

    With utility crews working throughout the day, power outage numbers have been dropping quickly after exceeding 62,000 outages late this morning. As of 4 p.m. approximately 36,500 power outages were reported across the state.

    The governor also asked residents to stay away from frozen ponds, to check on their friends and neighbors and look after their pets, as well. He urged residents to use caution with indoor heating sources.

    Travelers are urged to call 511 or go to www.ncdot.org for up to date roadway conditions. Motorists are reminded NOT to call 911 or the State Highway Patrol Communication Centers for roadway conditions.

    If you must travel, the North Carolina Highway Patrol recommends following these safety tips:

    Reduce your speed. Driving at the regular speed limit will reduce your ability to control the car if you begin to slide.

    Leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles. Bridges and overpasses accumulate ice first. Approach them with extreme caution and do not apply your brakes while on the bridge.

    If you do begin to slide, take your foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide. Do not apply the brakes as that will cause further loss of control of the car.


    Contact: Crystal Feldman
       govpress@nc.gov