Freezing Rain Alert: Ice and Power Outage Risks Loom This Weekend

An ice storm is expected to be more significant than a snow storm for much of central North Carolina during the upcoming weekend (Jan. 24-25, 2026). Saturday, Sunday, and Monday will be designated as WRAL Weather Alert Days due to anticipated difficult driving conditions.

“Every component will combine to introduce substantial moisture into the region, along with enough cold air to result in winter-like precipitation,” said WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner.

Rain is anticipated late Saturday afternoon, consisting mostly of ice rather than snow. Due to freezing temperatures throughout the seven-day forecast, road conditions may become hazardous for several days.

A significant portion of North Carolina, stretching west from Interstate 95, is under a winter storm warning for Saturday afternoon until Monday afternoon. The National Weather Service predicts that heavy mixed winter weather could create hazards for travel and electricity supply.

Snow, ice, or a combination of both might build up in central North Carolina on January 24 and 25, 2026.

“We are considering an event entirely composed of ice, and an ice storm could occur starting late Saturday and continue through Sunday night,” said WRAL meteorologist Mike Maze.

Futurecast indicates a shift from heavy snowfall to freezing rain and some sleet.

Continue to check WRAL in the days ahead — on television, on WRAL.com, and via the WRAL Weather app for the most accurate, straightforward forecasts and simple, useful guidance to assist with your weekend plans.

A large amount of moisture will be present in the region, combined with enough cold air to result in winter-like precipitation.

WRAL’s forecast

Snow and ice are expected to start falling on Saturday afternoon. By Saturday evening, it’s advisable to be in a secure, warm location, as road conditions will become dangerous for driving.

“This is a prolonged storm, and we may experience a buildup of substantial snow and ice,” said WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner.

Ice layers can put significant weight on power lines. Even a small accumulation of 1/4 inch of ice can lead to power line failures and result in outages during a winter storm. Additionally, falling branches may come into contact with the lines, leading to power interruptions.

“This storm could produce both of those,” said Jeff Brooks, a representative from Duke Energy.

Monday marks the end of rainfall but brings intense cold. We shouldn’t anticipate our snowfall to melt rapidly.

Severe cold continues across North Carolina at the beginning of the week.

Our nighttime temperatures remain in the teens throughout the week, and Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are expected to stay near or below freezing.

Any ice or snow that accumulates will remain, causing roads to be slippery and travel difficult.

Less flurries, more smooth roads

As the weather prediction changes, we are observing a decrease in the likelihood of snow in the Triangle area.

“Most of us seem to think we’ll just end up seeing ice,” Gardner said.

Models on Thursday morning indicated additional snowfall to the north of us. The likelihood of an inch or more in the Triangle has decreased to under 5%, while Roxboro and areas near Virginia have a higher chance.

From the Triangle to Rocky Mount, a combination of snow and ice was visible, while regions south of Raleigh are expected to experience an icy mixture according to the forecast.

The amount of accumulation will vary based on the quantity of liquid present. In other words, be ready to remain at home for at least the entire weekend. If the pattern of increased ice continues, we can expect additional power failures as well.

Nevertheless, there is a pattern emerging where some non-freezing rain is appearing in our Futurecast runs. Although freezing rain will still be prevalent in most regions, certain areas located further south may have a possibility of non-freezing precipitation.

The only manner in which matters couldnot occur if the high pressure system to the north is too powerful and blocks all moisture from moving southward. The likelihood of this happening – at this moment – is very low.

What steps can you take to get ready

We can inform you that a winter storm is expected during the weekend. It may last for an extended period, bringing snow, ice, or a combination of both to certain areas on Saturday through Sunday.

Although we are not sure if the weather will bring snow for an enjoyable sledding day or icy roads that can be risky for drivers, there are actions you can perform now to prepare for whatever the weather has in store.

Get prepared: Road workers, utility companies start getting ready for the freezing storm. Here’s how you can help.

First, choose a trusted sourcefor your information and remain calm.

“You might be noticing on your phone some unusual figures, like the amount of snow, things like that,” Gardner said.

You may trust in theWRAL Weather app. That is the prediction developed by the WRAL Severe Weather Center, and we will not provide you with anything we are not certain about.

Consider changing weekend plansIf you were anticipating being on the road, whatever falls may remain for a long time due to the extremely cold temperature.

Prepare for power outages.This might involve purchasing batteries for flashlights, acquiring firewood if you have a fireplace, and refilling your car’s fuel tank.

And find a method to remain connected— along with family, friends, and your school or company.

Expect school closings, delays

If there are closings or delays, for churches on Sunday or schools next week,WRAL will feature them in the WRAL News app and on WRAL.com.

We are aware that the Wake County Public School System has a teacher work day planned for January 26, which applies to students following a traditional schedule. Students in Tracks 1, 2, and 4 will attend school on that day. Students in Track 3 will be off starting on Monday.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools has a teacher workday scheduled for Monday.

Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Granville, Johnston, and Orange county schools are set to be open.

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