Town Of Clayton Declares State Of Emergency Ahead Of Winter Storm

CLAYTON — The Town of Clayton has declared a State of Emergency effective 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, in advance of Winter Storm Fern, which is expected to bring a significant mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the area.

The declaration comes as forecasts predict hazardous travel, possible power outages, and disruptions to essential services. It allows the Town to mobilize resources, coordinate emergency response efforts, and take necessary actions to protect life and property.

“This declaration allows us to prepare and respond as conditions evolve,” said Mayor Jody McLeod. “We encourage residents to take the storm seriously and make preparations now.”

Town Manager Rich Cappola said crews have been preparing throughout the week by treating roadways, staging equipment, and coordinating plans to respond to power outages, hazardous travel, and emergency needs.

Officials strongly advise residents to limit travel once winter weather begins, particularly during periods of freezing rain and sleet, when roads may become icy and unpredictable. Minimizing non-essential travel helps keep roads clear for emergency responders, utility crews, and public safety personnel.

For emergencies, residents should always call 911. Emergencies should not be reported via email, text, or social media.

Residents are also encouraged to prepare for possible power outages and report service disruptions through the Town’s Communication and Outage Messaging System (COMS):

• Power: Text POWER to 919-553-1530
• Water: Text WATER to 919-553-1530
• Online: TownofClaytonNC.org/COMS
• Phone: 919-553-1530

“The Town of Clayton operates its own electric utility, with local linemen ready to respond during inclement weather,” said Cappola. “If outages occur, crews will work as quickly as conditions allow, prioritizing critical needs and the most significant impacts first.”

Because conditions can change rapidly, the Town has created a dedicated Winter Weather Information Page with safety tips, outage reporting instructions, shelter locations, and updates: TownofClaytonNC.org/winter-info

Mayor McLeod asked residents for patience and understanding as Town staff respond throughout the storm and its aftermath.

“Our public works, utility, and public safety staff are members of this community, and many will be working long hours, including overnight shifts and extended time away from their families,” McLeod said. “We ask residents for patience, courtesy, and kindness as these teams work to support the community during this event.”