Raleigh Prepares for Another Winter Storm

City officials say they are ready to keep the community safe as another round of winter weather approaches.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:55pm

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As another winter storm approaches the Triangle region, city officials in Raleigh say they are prepared to respond, from police and fire departments to transportation crews. They are urging residents to only travel if absolutely necessary, as some roads may remain slick with icy spots. The city's transportation department is ready to plow snow and treat roads with salt, though they acknowledge the challenge of consecutive weekends of winter weather response taking a toll on staff.

Why it matters

Raleigh has faced a series of winter storms in recent weeks, testing the city's ability to keep roads safe and residents informed. Effective preparation and response is crucial to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety during severe winter weather.

The details

Last weekend's winter weather was more ice-related, but city officials say they are prepared for the forecast of snow this weekend. Transportation crews will work to push snow off the roads and treat them with salt, though the assistant director notes the challenge of staff fatigue after consecutive weekends of winter weather response. Residents are being advised to only travel if absolutely necessary, and to drive safely by leaving extra space between vehicles.

  • This weekend, another winter storm is expected to impact the Triangle region.
  • Last weekend was called a "dress rehearsal" by some first responders, as there were no major wrecks throughout the city.

The players

Raleigh Police

The Raleigh Police Department is prepared to respond to the winter weather event.

Raleigh Transportation Department

The city's transportation department is ready to plow snow and treat roads with salt, though they acknowledge the challenge of consecutive weekends of winter weather response taking a toll on staff.

Ryan and Sara Stone

Residents who are driving back to Pennsylvania on Friday and advising others to drive safely.

Jim Sarantos

A Raleigh resident who says he is "basically staying home" and minimizing travel time.

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What they’re saying

“Only travel if absolutely necessary,”

— Raleigh Police Lt. David Davis

“That can present a challenge if snow falls on top,”

— Steve Halsey, City transportation assistant director

“It becomes very challenging where people haven't had a break, and they're tired and certainly coming into this weekend, that's our biggest priority, is making sure our staff is in good spirits and rested and best they can be going into potentially another long stretch of days of work,”

— Steve Halsey, City transportation assistant director

“Take it slow,”

— Ryan Stone

“I think leaving space between you and the next car. So that way, if you can't stop, you're not hitting the next car in front of you,”

— Sara Stone

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 case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.