Overview
NC Local answers common questions about storm preparation. Do you have a question about winter weather, preparation or clean up? Send it to us!
Note: This post is updated frequently. Last updated January 29, 2026.
Why do we get a state of emergency declaration when the bad weather hasn’t happened yet?
In anticipation of Winter Storm Fern in late January, NC Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency.
The declaration allowed government officials to take precautionary measures, according to the Department of Public Safety.
A state of emergency also triggers the anti-price gouging law. The regulation keeps businesses from charging prices that are “unreasonably excessive under the circumstance.” The law describes several factors in determining if a price is “unreasonably excessive,” including what the price for the item was in the 60 days before the state of emergency.
If you think price gouging is happening in your community, you can make a complaint to the Attorney General’s office.
A state of emergency declaration may also make a state or region eligible for federal disaster funding.
How can I find the latest road conditions?
Roads can become impassable quickly, so try not to drive anywhere unless it is absolutely necessary.
Find the latest on road closures and hazards at the NC DOT’s Real-Time Road Condition page.
Seems like a great time for winter recreation. Are the national parks open?
It is highly unlikely that parks are open.
During Winter Storm Ferm, all national parkway roads and facilities closed beginning the evening of Friday, January 23.
Closures will continue until park staff determine it is safe to reopen. Park authorities say to expect barricades on the parkways. They also caution to be alert for trees and debris.
Can my employer make me come into work during the storm?
Yes. Under North Carolina law, private businesses do not have to close during bad weather. An employer can require employees to report to work even during a winter storm or state of emergency.
But your employer might have their own adverse weather policy. Workers might want to check with their supervisors about working remotely or delaying the beginning of their work days if road conditions are dangerous.
Can I refill my prescriptions early?
Yes. State law allows pharmacies to distribute early or emergency refills when a state of emergency is in effect. There are some restrictions for controlled substances like opioids. Health insurance companies often encourage early refills before a natural disaster strikes.
What should I do to prepare?
Plan to have enough food and water for a week, NC Emergency Management recommends. The agency has a guide on what to do before, during and after a winter storm. Prepare for possible power outages and blocked roads. Make sure you have some essentials:
- Food and water
- First-aid kit
- Blankets
- Flashlight and batteries
- Battery packs for electronics
- An alternate heat source, if possible, like a generator to power your HVAC system or firewood
Do not run a gas-powered generator or use a charcoal grill inside your home. They can both cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check on your neighbors to make sure they’re okay, and be prepared for bitter cold after the storm, too.
What do I do if I need shelter?
The United Way runs a statewide hotline for information about emergency shelters. Call 211 or visit NC211.org.
Where do I find power outage information?
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety provides power outage updates through the following provider sites:
Duke Energy
Dominion Energy
NC Electric Cooperatives
ElectriCities
To report an outage, call your local provider Find contact information from NC DPS below. Duke Energy customers can also text REG to 57801.
| North Carolina Utilities | |
| Outage Map | Report Outages |
| Duke Energy | 800-769-3766 |
| Duke Energy Progress | 800-419-6356 |
| Dominion Energy | 866-366-4357 |
| Albemarle EMC | 800-274-2072 |
| Blue Ridge Electric | 800-448-2383 |
| Brunswick EMC | 800-682-5309 |
| Cape Hatteras Electric Coop. | 866-511-9862 |
| Carteret-Craven Electric Coop. | 800-682-2217 |
| Central EMC | 877-766-6769 |
| Edgecombe-Martin County EMC | 800-690-0657 |
| Energy United | 800-386-4833 |
| Four County EMC | 888-368-7289 |
| French Broad EMC | 828-649-2051 |
| Halifax EMC | 800-690-0522 |
| Haywood EMC | 800-951-6088 |
| Jones-Onslow EMC | 800-681-4146 |
| Lumbee River EMC | 800-683-5571 |
| Pee Dee EMC | 800-693-0190 |
| Piedmont EMC | 800-449-2667 |
| Pitt and Greene EMC | 800-622-1362 |
| Randolph EMC | 877-736-2633 |
| Roanoke Electric Cooperative | 800-358-9437 |
| Rutherford EMC | 800-521-0920 |
| South River EMC | 800-338-5530 |
| Surry-Yadkin EMC | 336-356-4141 |
| Tideland EMC | 800-637-1079 |
| Tri-County EMC | 800-548-4869 |
| Union Power | 800-794-4423 |
| Wake EMC | 800-743-3155 |
| Wilson Energy | 252-399-2424 |
Source: NC Department of Public Safety
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