Greensboro, North Carolina, January 31, 2026
A significant winter storm has impacted the Piedmont Triad region and much of North Carolina, leading to substantial snowfall and numerous disruptions. Hazardous travel conditions resulted in school closures and delayed government operations. While conditions are gradually improving, dangers like black ice remain a concern as temperatures fluctuate. Authorities urge residents to proceed with caution while recovering from the storm’s aftermath.
Greensboro, North Carolina
A significant winter storm brought substantial snowfall and disrupted daily life across the Piedmont Triad region and much of North Carolina over the past 48 hours. The storm, which began impacting the area early Wednesday, January 29, 2026, resulted in widespread accumulations, creating hazardous travel conditions and leading to numerous closures. As of Friday morning, January 31, 2026, conditions are gradually improving, though residual impacts are still being felt, particularly on roadways.
The heaviest snowfall was concentrated across the higher elevations of western North Carolina, with some mountain areas reporting over 10 inches of accumulation. Within the Piedmont Triad, snowfall totals generally ranged from 4 to 8 inches, with localized areas receiving more. Greensboro experienced accumulations of approximately 6 inches, while Winston-Salem reported similar totals. Portions of the eastern Piedmont saw lesser amounts, typically between 2 and 4 inches, before the system moved offshore.
The storm’s peak intensity occurred throughout Wednesday, with snow falling at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour in some locations during the afternoon and evening. This rapid accumulation quickly made roads impassable, prompting authorities to urge residents to stay home. Temperatures remained at or below freezing for much of the storm’s duration, contributing to icy conditions beneath the snow and hindering melting.
Impacts and Disruptions Across the State
The widespread snowfall led to numerous disruptions. Across North Carolina, hundreds of public and private schools, colleges, and universities announced closures or delayed openings for Thursday, January 30, and Friday, January 31, allowing time for snow removal and safer travel. Government offices also operated on delayed schedules or closed entirely in many affected counties.
Transportation was severely impacted. State Patrol reported a surge in calls for service related to vehicle incidents, particularly during Wednesday’s evening commute. Numerous roads, especially secondary routes and those in higher elevations, remained snow-covered and treacherous through Thursday. Road crews worked continuously, deploying plows and treating surfaces with salt and brine to clear major arteries. However, significant patches of black ice were reported overnight into Friday morning, posing continued risks to motorists.
While widespread power outages were initially a concern, utility companies reported only scattered outages across the state, primarily due to falling tree limbs weighed down by heavy snow. Restoration efforts were swift for most affected customers.
Looking Ahead: Gradual Improvement and Lingering Concerns
Forecasters indicate that the immediate threat from the winter storm has passed, and conditions are expected to slowly improve over the weekend. Temperatures are projected to rise above freezing during daylight hours on Friday and Saturday, aiding in the melting process. However, overnight refreezing will remain a concern, particularly in shaded areas and on untreated surfaces, leading to the possibility of black ice. Residents are advised to continue exercising caution, especially when driving or walking outdoors.
Emergency services and local authorities emphasized the importance of staying informed about local conditions and adhering to any remaining advisories. Residents are encouraged to clear sidewalks and driveways of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls. The focus now shifts from emergency response to recovery and ensuring all roads and public spaces are safe for regular activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary impact of the recent winter storm in North Carolina?
The recent winter storm brought substantial snowfall and disrupted daily life across the Piedmont Triad region and much of North Carolina over the past 48 hours, resulting in widespread accumulations, hazardous travel conditions, and numerous closures.
When did the winter storm begin to impact North Carolina?
The storm began impacting the area early Wednesday, January 29, 2026.
How much snow did the Piedmont Triad region receive?
Within the Piedmont Triad, snowfall totals generally ranged from 4 to 8 inches, with localized areas receiving more. Greensboro experienced accumulations of approximately 6 inches, while Winston-Salem reported similar totals.
Which areas received the heaviest snowfall?
The heaviest snowfall was concentrated across the higher elevations of western North Carolina, with some mountain areas reporting over 10 inches of accumulation.
What was the impact on schools and transportation?
Across North Carolina, hundreds of public and private schools, colleges, and universities announced closures or delayed openings for Thursday, January 30, and Friday, January 31. Transportation was severely impacted, with a surge in vehicle incidents and numerous roads remaining snow-covered and treacherous.
Are conditions expected to improve?
Yes, forecasters indicate that the immediate threat from the winter storm has passed, and conditions are expected to slowly improve over the weekend, with temperatures projected to rise above freezing during daylight hours on Friday and Saturday.
What lingering concerns remain after the storm?
Overnight refreezing will remain a concern, particularly in shaded areas and on untreated surfaces, leading to the possibility of black ice.
Key Features of the Winter Storm
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Affected Region | Piedmont Triad and much of North Carolina, with heaviest impacts in western North Carolina. |
| Storm Duration | Began early Wednesday, January 29, 2026, with peak intensity through Wednesday. Lingering effects into January 31, 2026. |
| Snowfall Totals |
|
| Primary Impacts | Hazardous travel, school/university closures, government office delays/closures, increased vehicle incidents, scattered power outages. |
| Current Status (Jan 31) | Conditions gradually improving; immediate threat passed. |
| Lingering Concerns | Overnight refreezing and black ice, particularly in shaded and untreated areas. |
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