Historic Winter Storm Gianna Impacts the Carolinas

A powerful nor’easter, known as Winter Storm Gianna, struck the Carolinas over the weekend, resulting in record snowfall and hazardous conditions across the region. The storm, which intensified into a bomb cyclone, brought blizzard conditions, high winds, and significant travel disruptions, particularly in North Carolina. Snowfall totals exceeded a foot in many areas, with some locations reporting as much as 22.5 inches.

Winter storm leaves a blanket of snow in North CarolinaAt least 2 dead in North Carolina as storm brings heavy snow to SouthAnother major winter storm, with possible blizzard conditions, pushes into the SoutheastBomb cyclone delivers record snowfall across the Carolinas, Outer BanksBomb cyclone updates: 'Conditions are deteriorating rapidly' as winter storm ramps upIs North Carolina winter storm over? Snow totals, cold temp forecastNWS: Major winter storm expected to impact eastern North Carolina this weekend‘The Sequel Nobody Asked For’: N.C. Prepares for Another Winter StormBomb cyclone brings historic snow to North Carolina, flurries to Florida

The storm began affecting the region on January 30, 2026, with heavy snow accumulating rapidly. In North Carolina, areas like Faust reported 22.5 inches, while Charlotte experienced 11 inches, marking the fourth-highest single-day snowfall in the city's history. Other notable totals included 16 inches in Lexington and 18.3 inches in Peletier. Coastal regions, including Wilmington, received 5.8 inches, the largest snowfall in nearly 40 years.

Bomb cyclone delivers record snowfall across the Carolinas, Outer Banks

The storm caused widespread travel disruptions, with over 1,300 vehicle collisions reported across the Southeast, including a significant pileup involving more than 100 vehicles on Interstate 85 near Kannapolis. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein confirmed two fatalities linked to the storm and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel due to treacherous conditions. “Please be patient and stay off the roads unless it’s absolutely necessary,” he stated.

ICYMI: Gov. Josh Stein gives update on winter storm

In response to the storm, Governor Stein declared a state of emergency, mobilizing over 2,500 North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) workers to clear roads. NCDOT crews prioritized major highways and interstates, with plans to address secondary roads afterward. The governor emphasized the importance of public safety, advising residents to prepare for ongoing hazardous conditions due to black ice and extreme cold.

ICYMI: Gov. Josh Stein gives update on winter stormGovernor Stein and Emergency Management Officials Provide Updates Ahead of Winter StormWinter storm blankets NC roads from coast to mountains. People urged to stay home.Road conditions deteriorate across eastern North Carolina as winter storm moves throughAt least 2 dead in North Carolina as storm brings heavy snow to South2 dead amid winter storm that brought record-setting snow and freezing temperatures to the SouthBomb cyclone updates: 'Conditions are deteriorating rapidly' as winter storm ramps up

Despite the efforts to manage the storm's aftermath, some residents expressed frustration over the lack of preparedness for such severe winter weather. Myrtle Beach, a city typically unaccustomed to snow, faced challenges with snow removal, as officials noted they had no dedicated snow removal equipment. Mayor Mark Kruea acknowledged the city's limitations, stating, “We’re going to use what we can find.”

Live updates: A bomb cyclone winter storm is moving up the East Coast

The storm not only affected travel and safety but also posed risks to power infrastructure. Over 160,000 utility customers across the South experienced outages, with North Carolina reporting significant disruptions. The extreme cold following the storm raised concerns about hypothermia and frostbite, particularly for vulnerable populations.

At least 2 dead in North Carolina as storm brings heavy snow to South

As the storm subsides, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing, prolonging the risk of icy roads and hazardous conditions. Forecasters predict additional weather systems may bring light precipitation midweek, but significant accumulations are not anticipated. Residents are advised to remain cautious and monitor local updates as recovery efforts continue.

Winter storm warnings downgraded, extreme cold and hazardous travel continue across ENC

• “This has truly been a historic storm that will be talked about for decades to come,” — National Weather Service, Wilmington, N.C.

A ‘Historic’ Snowfall Hits the Carolinas

• “Please continue to stay off the roadways today to let first responders, the NCDOT, the State Highway Patrol, and the North Carolina National Guard safely operate,” — Don Campbell, NC Emergency Management Chief of Staff

ICYMI: Gov. Josh Stein gives update on winter storm

• “We have a lot of miles of road in North Carolina, and it’s going to take some time,” — Governor Josh Stein

Winter storm blankets NC roads from coast to mountains. People urged to stay home.

This winter storm serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of severe weather and the importance of preparedness in mitigating its impacts.

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