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National Guard activated as Gov. Roy Cooper declares State of Emergency ahead of second winter storm in a week

Leaders are watching closely more winter weather expected to impact the central and eastern part of the state.

RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Roy Cooper said 114 soldiers are staging in both central and eastern North Carolina ahead of the winter storm. 

Cooper declared a State of Emergency Wednesday ahead of a second winter storm expected to move through the state in a week.

State leaders said starting on Thursday, the winter storm is expected to bring snow, sleet, freezing rain and ice causing significant impacts to the central and eastern regions of the state.

Cooper said significant power outages are expected in the southeastern counties and the cities of Wilmington, Jacksonville and New Bern. 

A quarter-inch or more of ice is expected on trees and power lines. 

Cooper said soldiers are equipped with high clearance vehicles, trucks and four-wheel drive ambulances.

He said the State of Emergency will help free up resources within the state for the winter storm. 

“This State of Emergency will waive some transportation regulations to allow for quicker storm preparation and response and power restoration,” said Governor Cooper. “North Carolinians should prepare today for this storm and make sure they have any medications, food and emergency equipment they may need over the next few days.”

RELATED: 15 things to do before the power goes out during a winter storm

State leaders said a separate emergency declaration, documentation and expense tracking are important when seeking federal reimbursement for two different storm events.

RELATED: Winter Storm Guide | What to do before, during, after the storm

To prepare for this storm and possible power outages, North Carolina Emergency Management advises people to:

  • Get the groceries and essentials you need before Thursday evening. Travel will become hazardous in many parts of eastern North Carolina after that.
  • Keep cell phones, mobile devices and spare batteries charged in case your power goes out
  • Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights.
  • Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.
  • Properly vent kerosene heaters and ensure generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Never burn charcoal indoors or use a gas grill indoors.
  • Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.
  • Store an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit and road map.
  • Gather emergency supplies for your pet including leash and feeding supplies, enough food and for several days and pet travel carrier.
  • Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather.

Visit ReadyNC.gov for additional information on winter weather preparation, as well as information on power outages. Visit DriveNC.gov for current travel conditions from NCDOT.

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