Thousands Without Power in NC as Winter Storm Causes Outages

Thousands of Duke Energy customers across North Carolina are without power Saturday morning following a severe winter storm that brought freezing temperatures and icy conditions. The outages, caused by fallen trees and limbs damaging equipment, have left residents grappling with the aftermath of the storm.

According to Duke Energy, the company is working to restore power, but icy conditions and wind gusts of up to 20 mph are complicating efforts. “We are prioritizing safety and working as quickly as possible to restore service,” a Duke Energy spokesperson said. Residents are encouraged to report outages via the company’s website or by calling 800.769.3766.

WRAL meteorologists warned that while the worst of the storm has passed, lingering threats remain. Temperatures dropped to 32 degrees Saturday morning, causing roads, bridges, and sidewalks to freeze. “The biggest threat right now is slick bridges and power outages,” said a WRAL meteorologist. Authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

In Raleigh, a crash on Interstate 40 East near Gorman Street highlighted the hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, Raleigh-Durham International Airport reported 33 flight cancellations as of Saturday morning. Travelers are advised to check for delays and cancellations before heading to the airport.

Local officials are monitoring the situation closely, with emergency services on high alert. “We’re seeing slick spots on roads and widespread power outages,” said a Wake County spokesperson. “We urge everyone to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel.”

As crews work to restore power and clear roads, residents are reminded to stay informed through local news outlets and official updates. The storm’s impact is expected to linger throughout the weekend, with temperatures remaining near freezing.