Region faces hazardous road conditions, freezing temperatures, and power outages as severe winter weather affects the Carolinas
Duke Energy is urging residents in the Carolinas to conserve electricity during peak demand hours as subzero wind chills and extreme cold temperatures put a strain on the regional power grid. As part of a proactive measure, the utility company requested customers to reduce their electricity usage from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Monday, February 2, when the demand is anticipated to peak due to temperatures dropping 10 to 20 degrees below normal.
In a statement, Duke Energy emphasized that high demand amidst limited power supplies could lead to outages. The company outlined several practical steps for consumers to minimize demand, such as lowering thermostat settings, wearing additional layers of clothing, and refraining from using high-energy appliances during peak hours. Furthermore, they discouraged the use of electric space heaters and instead advised residents to utilize natural sunlight by keeping blinds open during the day.
As the region grapples with harsh winter conditions, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has also advised residents to avoid travel unless necessary. A rare statewide snowstorm blanketed all 100 counties, leading to over 1,000 traffic incidents and resulting in two fatalities. The storm dropped significant snowfall, with reports of 16 inches in Lexington and 15 inches in Ocean Isle, creating treacherous road conditions characterized by ice and snow.
Governor Stein warned that the freezing temperatures are likely to persist, raising concerns about the potential for black ice on the roads. North Carolina’s Department of Transportation has deployed about 2,500 workers to clear roadways, but officials cautioned that the extensive road network may take time to fully reopen. A substantial pile-up involving more than 100 vehicles occurred on Interstate 85, highlighting the severity of the conditions.
As of Sunday morning, approximately 10,500 power outages were reported statewide. Additionally, ferry services on routes like N.C. 12 on the Outer Banks were suspended due to adverse weather conditions, including high winds and ocean overwash. Local emergency operations centers are activated, and residents are encouraged to dial 911 only for emergencies while using 211 for non-emergent inquiries.
In the Asheville area and Western North Carolina, local officials reiterated the importance of staying off the roads to facilitate snow removal and emergency response efforts. The City of Asheville issued road advisories urging drivers to remain at home unless travel is essential, as city crews work diligently to clear priority roads first.
Despite the challenging weather, officials have expressed gratitude toward residents who heeded caution and stayed off the roads, allowing emergency and road crews to address the aftermath of the winter storm more effectively.
Looking ahead, while temperatures are expected to remain low, there is a glimmer of hope as conditions are forecast to improve gradually through the week, with sunny skies on Monday and milder temperatures predicted for the days to follow.