Smithfield, N.C. – Johnston County Emergency Services is urging residents to stay home if possible as winter weather continues to impact the area. Significant snowfall has impacted much of the county overnight, and travel remains hazardous.

First responders have responded to 11 motor vehicle accidents in the past 24 hours due, in part, to slick road conditions.

“Emergency response personnel will continue to be ready and available to anyone in need,” said Ryan Parker, Director of Emergency Services. “You can help us greatly by staying off the roads and keeping them clear for first responders and NCDOT crews.”

Residents are strongly encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel to reduce the risk of crashes and allow emergency responders to reach those in need.

Temperatures will remain low this week, with wind chills reaching as low as negative five degrees. Melting of any snow accumulation will take time, and the risk of black ice overnight will be high.

If travel is unavoidable, drivers are urged to use extreme caution:

- Allow plenty of extra time to reach your destination
- Slow down and reduce speed
- Increase following distance between vehicles
- Be alert for icy patches, especially on bridges and overpasses

A Local State of Emergency went into effect January 30 at 7 p.m., and will continue until conditions improve across the county.

Emergency Services staff will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates on its social media pages as needed. Residents are encouraged to sign up for JoCo Alerts, the county’s free emergency alert system, and monitor the department's EM Alerts Dashboard for real-time information. For emergency situations, dial 911.

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