RALEIGH, N.C. — Although North Carolina has enjoyed mild temperatures the past couple of days, this is the time to prepare for severe winter weather, Gov. Roy Cooper is reminding state residents.

Winter Weather Preparedness Week begins Sunday and runs through Dec. 11.

Residents should have a family emergency plan and an updated emergency supply kit, Cooper stated Friday in a news release.

“North Carolina’s winter weather can be challenging and everyone should be prepared for dangerous conditions,” Cooper said.

This winter may be warmer and drier than normal, partly because of a La Niña pattern that will continue through the season, but that doesn’t rule out severe weather at some points, Spectrum News 1 Meteorologist Matthew East says.

N.C. Emergency Management officials advise residents to get ready for winter weather disruptions by taking these steps:

  • Keep at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a supply of medication at home
  • Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights
  • Dress warmly, wearing multiple layers of clothing
  • Properly vent kerosene heaters and ensure any electric generators are operated outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to monitor weather conditions
  • Keep alternative heating sources and fire extinguishers on hand and know how to use them.
  • Have an emergency kit in your vehicle, including a scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit and road map
  • Make an emergency supply kit for your pet and include medical records, first-aid kit, enough canned/dry food and water for three to seven days and pet travel bag or carrier.

Motorists can check road conditions at https://drivenc.gov/ or call 511.

Click here for our latest 7-day forecast.