Charlotte, North Carolina, July 27, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte, North Carolina, is preparing for a significant winter storm that has led to a statewide emergency declaration by Governor Josh Stein. Expected snowfall ranges from 1 to 5 inches across various regions, prompting safety warnings and emergency measures. Residents are advised to stay off the roads and prepare for possible power outages due to ice accumulation. Local authorities are mobilizing resources, including National Guardsmen and snow removal teams, as they brace for the potentially dangerous conditions. Schools are shifting to remote learning, and emergency shelters are expanding to accommodate those in need.
Charlotte, North Carolina Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm
Charlotte, North Carolina, is bracing for a significant winter storm that has prompted Governor Josh Stein to declare a statewide state of emergency. The winter storm is expected to hit the region on Friday afternoon, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain which could create hazardous conditions across the state.
The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that snow accumulations could reach between 2 to 5 inches across mountainous areas, with urban centers like Mecklenburg County expected to receive 1 to 1.5 inches. Southern regions may see lesser amounts, with predictions of up to half an inch of snow.
As the storm approaches, Governor Stein has advised residents to closely monitor local weather forecasts and prepare necessary supplies ahead of the arrival of severe weather. Dangerous driving conditions are anticipated due to ice, and residents are encouraged to stay off the roads if possible.
Areas of Impact
Charlotte is expected to see snowfall starting between 4 to 5 p.m. on Friday. Cities along Interstate 85, including Gastonia, Charlotte, and Salisbury, are predicted to experience 1 to 2 inches of snow and sleet. The forecasters have issued a winter storm warning for Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas, indicating potentially life-threatening conditions.
The winter storm poses threats beyond difficult driving conditions. The combination of snow and sleet could lead to downed power lines and outages across the area due to the added weight from ice accumulation. Duke Energy is preparing for potential power disruptions as icy conditions worsen.
Emergency Preparations
To address the coming storm, the state has activated over 180 National Guardsmen to assist with emergency response measures. Snow removal teams at Charlotte Douglas International Airport have mobilized nearly 40 vehicles in anticipation of the inclement weather.
In response to the predicted weather hazards, Charlotte homeless shelters have expanded their capacity through Sunday and will provide free transportation for those in need. Additionally, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, alongside several surrounding districts, will transition to fully remote learning on Friday, while other districts may be closed entirely on that day. UNC Charlotte plans to reduce operations but will remain open.
Weather Aftermath
The onset of frigid temperatures is anticipated following the storm, with highs projected to be in the low 40s and lows dipping into the high teens. Numerous road accidents have already been reported due to dangerous conditions in central North Carolina, and many primary and secondary roads are unsafe for travel, affecting daily commutes.
Summary
This winter storm brings serious risks, including hazardous road conditions, power outages, and public safety concerns. Local authorities have urged residents to exercise caution and stay informed as the storm progresses. The state is taking necessary steps to ensure public safety and readiness for the challenges presented by this severe weather event.
FAQ
- What areas in North Carolina are affected by the winter storm?
- The storm is predicted to affect various regions across North Carolina, with significant impacts expected in Mecklenburg County and cities along Interstate 85, including Gastonia and Salisbury.
- What is the expected snowfall for the Charlotte area?
- Charlotte is expected to receive approximately 1 to 1.5 inches of snow, with snowfall expected to begin around 4 or 5 p.m. on Friday.
- What precautions are being taken by state authorities?
- The state has activated over 180 National Guardsmen, mobilized snow removal teams, and expanded capacity in homeless shelters. Additionally, many schools are shifting to remote learning.
- What is the expected temperature after the storm?
- Following the storm, temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with highs in the low-40s and lows in the high teens.
- How can residents prepare for the storm?
- Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather forecasts, prepare necessary supplies at home, and stay off the roads if possible during the storm.
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Additional Resources
- WRAL News
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- CBS 17 News
- Google Search: Winter Weather North Carolina
- ABC 11 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
- WXII 12 News
- Google News: Winter Storm North Carolina
- Spectrum Local News
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
