Winter weather can bring power outages, dangerous road conditions, and limited access to services. Now is the time to make sure your household has an emergency preparedness kit. Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a phone charger or battery pack. Having supplies ready can make a stressful situation safer and more manageable. A little preparation now goes a long way. Stay safe and be prepared. Learn more at www.readync.gov.
January 22, 10:00 am: The Governor has issued a State of Emergency due to the pending winter storm, and the National Weather Service has placed Alexander County under a Winter Storm Watch from Saturday morning through Monday afternoon.
This has been a constantly changing forecast, but confidence is high that significant impacts will occur on Saturday and Sunday. What remains uncertain is the exact type and amount of precipitation, which is common with winter systems in our region.
Forecast trends have shifted, with ice now the primary concern and snow chances decreasing. Wintry precipitation is expected to begin around midday Saturday, starting as snow before changing to sleet and freezing rain on Saturday afternoon and evening, continuing through late Sunday into early Monday.
There is currently a 50% chance of one-half inch or more of ice accumulation. Ice of this magnitude can lead to slick roads, downed trees and power lines, and extended power outages. Power outages and travel impacts remain the main concerns.
Temperatures are expected to remain near or below freezing, with Monday’s high near 32 degrees and limited melting until Tuesday. Hazardous travel conditions may persist into early next week, even after precipitation ends.
Preparedness Reminders:
• Limit or avoid travel after Saturday morning, especially once precipitation begins.
• Have a plan for power outages and cold temperatures for family members and pets.
• Check on neighbors, particularly older adults and those with medical needs.
• Ensure you have at least a week’s supply of medications, along with oxygen, medical equipment, and batteries if needed.
• Charge phones and devices, and monitor trusted media sources.
Forecast updates will continue as this system evolves.
Stay up to date with local weather and emergency information at https://alexandercountync.gov/winter-storm-january-2026.
Sign up for CodeRED emergency alerts at https://accountportal.onsolve.net/AlexanderCountyCodeRED.
Contact numbers to share: https://alexandercountync.gov/numbers.