North Carolina Prepares For First Winter Storm Of The Season

North Carolinians are readying for the first major winter storm of the season, and Gov. Roy Cooper is urging residents to be prepared.

Snow and other types of wintry precipitation are predicted to impact the area this weekend.

Cooper issued a statement Thursday saying people need to be ready for cold temperatures, hazardous roadways, and the possibility of power outages.

Parts of northwestern North Carolina have already received snow this week, and officials in the region have put down more than 800 tons of salt and sand.

The State Department of Transportation is watching the forecast for decisions on brining in other areas.

Emergency Management officials recommend having at least three days of non-perishable food on hand, batteries, a fire extinguisher, and exercising caution when operating alternative heaters.

The North Carolina Highway Patrol cautions against driving in areas where conditions become hazardous.