Winter storm could bring hazards like power outages, dangerous road conditions in Charlotte Metro

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - An impactful winter storm was expected to hit the Carolinas this weekend and bring snow and ice to the region.

First Alert Weather Days were in place for this weekend through Monday due to a winter storm that was likely to create hazardous conditions in North and South Carolina. The storm was expected to reach the Carolinas on Saturday Jan. 24, with the bulk of precipitation expected in the afternoon and evening in the Charlotte region.

Both North and South Carolina governors issued a state of emergency declaration on Wednesday, Jan. 21 due to the storm.

---> More: Impactful winter storm expected to bring ice, snow to Charlotte region: Latest forecast here

Here’s a look at the two biggest hazards that the storm could bring to the Charlotte region starting this weekend.

Power outages possible

Duke Energy said that with snow it takes around six inches or more for a tree limb or tree to break and possibly fall on power lines and cause outages.

With ice, a quarter-inch is enough to break tree limbs and weigh down powerlines which can lead to power outages.

Dangerous road conditions possible

With ice expected in the Charlotte Metro area starting on Saturday, Jan. 24, dangerous road conditions could pose a major problem for residents, including black ice.

Ice can be dangerous because it can topple trees and power lines, blocking roadways. Officials with Duke Energy said that a quarter-inch of ice is enough to weigh down tree limbs, and power lines can be damaged or snapped.

With snow, it takes around six inches or more before it can impact trees or break tree limbs.

The City of Charlotte said its landscape management team’s first priority during storms is to clear the roads of debris to provide, at a minimum, single-lane access along major roadways for first responders, police, or fire.

Officials said once those roads are cleared, landscape management would focus on clearing single-lane access on secondary roads and all-lane access for non-emergency vehicles.

What is black ice?

The National Weather Service said black ice is a dangerous driving hazard, as patchy ice can form on roadways and other transportation surfaces and be very hard to see.

Black ice is often clear, with the black road surface visible beneath, and can be most dangerous during the early morning hours after snow has melted and refreezes overnight.

It can also form when roadways are slick, and temperatures drop below freezing.

Duke Energy preparing crews

Duke Energy said it is preparing crews and checking equipment, supplies, and inventory to ensure they have the materials to make repairs.

As of Wednesday, Jan. 21, Duke Energy are encouraging customers to have a plan in place and start preparing now as they there is a “high” potential for power outages.

Customers can report outages by calling 800.POWERON (800-769-3766), texting OUT to 57801, or using the Duke Energy app.

Officials with Duke Energy also provided safety reminders as the winter storm approaches.

• Make sure all mobile phones remain charged and have an adequate supply of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable foods, and medicines. 
• If you use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside, and never in a building or garage. 
• Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized as well as trees or limbs in contact with lines. Report any downed power lines to Duke Energy or local emergency services. 
• Make alternate shelter arrangements, as needed, if you are significantly affected by a loss of power – especially families who have special medical needs or elderly members. 

Avoid downed power lines

When power lines are knocked down amid severe weather, it’s vital to avoid them at all costs.

Here are some safety tips regarding downed power lines, from Duke Energy:

• Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging.
• Consider all power lines -- as well as trees, limbs and anything else in contact with power lines -- energized and dangerous.
• Report all power line hazards to Duke Energy at 800-228-8485, or contact your local emergency services department or agency.
• Keep children and family pets away from areas where lines may have fallen (backyards, fields, schoolyards, etc.).
• If a power line falls across a car that you’re in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.