CHARLOTTE — The North Carolina Department of Transportation gave an update Thursday on their plans to help protect drivers from this weekend’s winter storm, which is expected to bring the first measurable snowfall to Mecklenburg County in three years.
[ UPDATES: School & Business Closings ]
Several roads across Charlotte had already been treated with salt and brine early Thursday morning. Officials said that will lower the freezing point of water on the roads and hopefully prevent dangerous ice patches.
>> CLICK HERE for the latest forecast from Severe Weather Center 9
NCDOT said its workers will be on 12-hour shifts to respond to any issues once the storm starts. They have nearly 2,000 trucks ready to go once the storm arrives.
Officials encourage everyone to stay home and off the roads during the storm if possible.
In cities such as Concord, crews are prepared for all kinds of precipitation.
“If it becomes an ice event where we have a lot of downed trees then we’ll transition to having crews clean and clear downed debris,” said Concord Street Superintendent Randy Shue.
If you do have to drive, stay out of the way of road crews, give them extra space when you see them, and trail further behind the cars in front of you.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport has airport workers and about 40 trucks on standby to de-ice planes and remove snow from runways. Channel 9 is monitoring impacts at Charlotte Douglas. You can also check the status of your flight, or visit your airline’s website, on FlightAware.
[ ALSO READ: Duke Energy preparing for winter storm ]
Duke Energy suggested you get bottled water and nonperishable food, and charge devices just in case ice knocks the power out.
Winter Weather Guide:
- View our Interactive Radar
- Sign up to receive severe weather closings text alerts
- Stay safe while driving on black ice
- Bread and milk: Why do we buy those foods before a storm?
- Here are 16 tips for keeping you, your pets and home safe in the cold
- Download WSOC-TV Weather App
- LIKE WSOC-TV Weather on Facebook
Stay with Channel 9 for the latest winter storm coverage.
(WATCH BELOW: Winter weather preparations underway in western North Carolina)
This browser does not support the video element.