Winston-Salem, North Carolina – A prolonged and dangerous winter storm is expected to impact the Triad and northern Piedmont beginning Saturday afternoon, bringing heavy ice accumulation that could trigger widespread power outages and hazardous travel through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Raleigh, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 1 p.m. Saturday until 1 p.m. Monday for Forsyth, Guilford, Alamance, Orange, Davidson, Randolph, and Person counties. The storm is expected to produce heavy mixed precipitation, with ice accumulations around one-half inch and additional sleet and snow totals ranging from 1 to 3 inches.
Regional impacts are expected to be severe due to ice buildup on trees and power lines. Utility crews are preparing for the possibility of long-lasting outages across the Triad, including Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, Burlington, Chapel Hill, and Asheboro. Roads are likely to become slick and dangerous, especially bridges and elevated surfaces along Interstates 40, 85, and U.S. 52.
Residents are urged to delay travel if possible and prepare for extended periods without power. Charging devices, securing backup lighting, and having food, water, and cold-weather supplies ready is strongly advised. Travel conditions are expected to worsen Saturday night and remain hazardous through Sunday night.
The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through early Monday afternoon, with dangerous conditions likely to impact the Monday morning commute. Additional advisories or extensions are possible as the storm evolves. Residents should monitor local alerts and check road conditions by calling 511 before heading out.
