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(For everyone, not just the UNC ones.)
This storm looks like it might be the real thing, dumping a lot of snow on the lucky and a lot of ice and sleet on the unlucky. We all laugh about those rushing to buy bread and milk; not me, no milk ever, so I buy beer, wine, and TP.
Since I have been through a lot of these, a couple of reminders from things I learned in the past, particularly in 200O (about 30 inches locally, somewhat less officially at RDU) and the 2002 ice storm (no power for eight days with temps mostly staying between 10 and 30 degrees). My guess is that this storm will cause the most trouble just south and east of Raleigh, maybe Smithfield to Goldsboro, where it will be mostly sleet and freezing rain resulting in power outages.
With temps in the teens Sat and Sunday nights, those without power will be very cold and lonely. Travel will be nearly impossible until Sunday afternoon. If you are unlucky, remember to check on your neighbors, etc. and good luck.
Things to do before it starts:
1. Wash clothes and run the dishwasher. Start fresh.
2. If you bought any food items that need to be cooked, think about preparing ahead -- remember that you might not have any way to reheat before serving.
3. Without electricity, for most people, the heating options remaining are wood or gas fireplaces and wood, gas, or kerosene space heaters. Be careful with any of them.
4. Hot/warm water is precious without electricity. Electric tankless are out of luck, tank will hold for a while. Gas tankless might still work, gas heated tank systems are likely to work, though some of the newer smart ones have electric controls that can cause problems.
5. I usually keep my house a bit warmer than usual in these situations to give a little extra margin on the heat. (I usually keep it fairly cool.)
6. Charge all your cell phones, laptops, cameras, etc. The laptops can be used to recharge cell phones, iphones, etc. using the USB connectors. Have a simple wired handset for use on landline telephones. Sometimes landlines or cell services will work when the other is no longer working.
7. Remember your and your neighbors' pets. Last year I cared for a lost cat until I found its grateful owner.
8. Dried and fresh fruits are a good addition to all that PBJ, bread, and milk. Leftover pizza isn't too bad cold. Some of the lunch-size cans (designed for microwave) are OK if not heated.
9. Have a couple of good books available.
10. Have fun.
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