North Carolina Braces for Another Winter Storm

Road crews prepare for snow and cold temperatures that could prolong cleanup efforts

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:39pm

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North Carolina is preparing for another winter storm this weekend, with forecasters expecting 4 to 8 inches of snow and persistently cold temperatures that could make it harder for road crews to clear the roads. State and local officials are urging residents to stay home and off the roads during the storm, as the combination of snow accumulation and frigid temperatures could create hazardous driving conditions.

Why it matters

North Carolina has already dealt with one winter storm this month, and the back-to-back storms are putting a strain on road crews and emergency responders. The state's transportation department is concerned about driver fatigue, as crews have been working long hours to clear roads. The cold temperatures after the storm could also prolong the cleanup process, as the salt and brine used to treat the roads may be less effective.

The details

The storm is expected to bring heavy snow starting late Friday and continuing through Saturday and into Sunday morning. Unlike the previous storm, which featured sleet and ice, this storm will bring mostly snow, which is easier for plows to clear. However, the cold temperatures, which are not expected to rise above freezing until Monday afternoon, could cause the snow to linger on the roads, especially on secondary and neighborhood streets. Road crews are focusing first on clearing the busier roads and highways to provide access to major routes.

  • Snow is expected to begin falling in the Triangle late Friday.
  • Heavy snow is forecast for Saturday and overnight into Sunday morning.
  • Temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing until Monday afternoon.
  • Temperatures are then forecast to drop back into the teens on Monday night.

The players

Steve Halsey

Raleigh's assistant director of transportation.

Doug McNeal

NCDOT maintenance engineer for the seven-county region that includes Durham and Wake.

Gov. Josh Stein

The governor of North Carolina.

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What they’re saying

“Because of expected snow accumulation, cold temperatures and wind gusts, our greatest concern is unsafe travel. Please take a second look at your weekend plans. Stay home and off the roads during winter weather.”

— Gov. Josh Stein

“Colder than normal temperatures after the storm can create its own set of problems. If we're not able to get the higher temperatures and sunshine to help us with the melting process, the snow can drag on, especially on neighborhood roads and other roads that we're not able to treat.”

— Steve Halsey, Raleigh's assistant director of transportation

“The biggest concern for us right now is driver fatigue.”

— Doug McNeal, NCDOT maintenance engineer

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This storm highlights the ongoing challenges North Carolina faces in dealing with winter weather, as road crews work to clear the roads while also managing driver fatigue and the effects of prolonged cold temperatures. The state's transportation officials are urging residents to stay off the roads to allow crews to work safely and efficiently.