Governor Pat McCrory continued to urge people to stay off the roads during this winter storm.

In a press conference held Friday morning,  McCrory announced that four fatalities have occurred this year due to car accidents related to winter weather.

“Early this morning we had a very serious wreck on I-95 where one person has died,” he said. “A major trucking accident with several trucks and a car. We’re having some very serious issues on I-95 at this time.”

Because of the accident, parts of I-95 were closed.

McCrory said accidents are occurring because people don’t see snow on the road and speed up because they assume it is clear.

He urged drivers to be cautious and be aware of black ice.

“A concern we have right now is some of the mixtures are going from snow to rain back to snow back to rain to freezing ice and you’ve got to recognize that when the rain comes it’s taking off the materials that DOT did such a good job putting on.”

He said when the black ice comes after the rain, the salt brine or sand that has been laid down won’t work.

From Thursday night into Friday morning, the State Highway Patrol responded to 571 calls for assistance and McCrory said they have identified about 25 to 30 abandoned cars.

“The issue across the state is very strong gusty winds, which could cause power outages and make it difficult for safety personnel” he said.

Do not call 911 in non-emergency situations.

If you want updates on the roads or the weather, call 511, visits ReadyNC.org or download the ReadyNC app for your smartphone.

“Something my wife reminded me of last night that I didn’t mention,” McCrory said. “Make sure to check with your neighbors and check if they’re okay, especially if the power goes out.”

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