Possible Winter Storm Expected During Weekend

Forecasts calling for possible snow, ice and bitterly cold temps

Winter Storm Expected

Duke officials are closely monitoring weather conditions as long-range forecasts project the possibility of a winter storm for central North Carolina this weekend. 

The National Weather Service said confidence is increasing regarding a significant winter event with potential moderate effects across central North Carolina. Current models favor a larger area seeing freezing rain or sleet or a wintry mix of snow/sleet/ice, rather than all snow. Accumulation of snow and ice may range from 5 to 9 inches.

The system will also bring bitterly cold air through early next week with lows in the teens Sunday morning, Jan. 25, and in the single digits to low teens on Monday morning. As a result, any frozen precipitation will likely be slow to melt. 

Duke crews are planning to pre-treat and brine to campus streets, outdoor stairways, walkways and entries to parking facilities later in the week before any potential winter weather. Crews will be on-site and ready to respond throughout the weekend. 

Given the forecasts for winter weather, staff members should review the Severe Weather and Emergency Conditions policy and discuss with their managers what they should do if it is activated.  

During times of severe weather, some staff positions require on-site presence to continue operations. To ensure continuous operations of patient care, student support and research functions, managers should assign all jobs to one of three service categories:

  • Essential Service: During severe weather or emergency conditions, essential service staff report or remain at work. Transportation service and childcare services may be provided for those required to work during severe weather or emergency conditions.
  • Reserve Service: During severe weather or emergency conditions, these staff are assigned a status at the time of the event.
  • Delayed Service: During severe weather or emergency conditions, these staff do not report to or remain at work.

If the policy is activated, the announcement will be made through the various DukeALERT channels, including email and text message. The announcement and updates also will be posted on the DukeALERT website and recorded on the severe weather/emergency conditions telephone line at 919-684-INFO (4636). 

More information about the policy, a map of priorities for clearing roads, lots and sidewalks, and resources, is available on the Duke Emergency Management website. 

Future updates will be posted on this story as conditions warrant. Follow Working@Duke social media for additional real-time updates on Instagram, Facebook and X.

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