The Town of Chapel Hill and Orange County are currently preparing for Winter Storm Diego, which is expected to hit the local area this weekend. Orange County is currently under a winter storm watch, with two to eight inches of snow in the forecast.

Here are steps residents can take before snow falls to prepare for Winter Storm Diego:

  • Prepare for a possible power loss: Double check flashlights and radios, add batteries to the emergency kit, charge mobile devices and keep a portable charger close by.
  • Dress warmly: The temperatures are expected to reach the 30’s over the weekend.
  • Fill up on gas: Try to keep a full tank in case fuel lines freeze over, expect to see delays at the pump over the weekend as well.
  • Ready your vehicle: Check your vehicle’s battery, wipers, coolant, tires and other systems that are most affected when the temperature drops, make sure your tires have good tread and clear all snow and debris off your car.
  • Check road conditions before driving: Some roads may be have ice not visible on the surface, check with local law enforcement officers to see if road conditions are safe to drive. Give extra distance between vehicles when on the road, stopping on snow/ice can require four to 10 times the distance compared to dry pavement.
  • Pack an emergency car kit: If you absolutely need to drive, pack an emergency kit in case you get stranded. This kit should include:
    • mobile phone, charger, batteries, blankets, flashlight with extra batteries, first-aid kit, high-calorie, non-perishable food, small can with waterproof matches and candle to melt snow for drinking water, sack of sand or cat litter for traction, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, and battery booster cables.
  • Bring pets/animals inside: Make sure that pets and enough food/water for the weekend
  • Stock up on food and water: Be sure to keep at least a three-day supply of food and water in case of a power outage and unsafe road conditions.

Stay connected

Report Power Outages:

  • Duke 1-800-POWER-ON
  • Piedmont 1-800-222-3107
  • Progress Energy 1-800-419-6356
  • PSNC 1-877-776-2427
  • For downed trees and ice on roads: call 911