North Carolina, Arkansas Brace for Severe Winter Storms

Governors in North Carolina and Arkansas have declared states of emergency in anticipation of severe winter storms expected to hit both states. In North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein activated the emergency response team and positioned over 180 National Guardsmen to tackle expected power outages and hazardous road conditions. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has been proactive, pre-treating roads with brine and preparing snow removal equipment. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a similar emergency declaration that allows for expedited transport of essential goods and services, with commercial vehicles temporarily exempt from normal driving limits. Both states emphasize the importance of residents staying off roads unless absolutely necessary to ensure safety and facilitate emergency operations. Schools in Northwest Arkansas are also planning for potential snow days, with some districts using 'bank days' to adjust their academic calendars.