In advance of the expected impacts from Winter Storm Gianna, Union County is declaring a
State of Emergency that goes into effect on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at 7 a.m. The County's Emergency Operations Center will be activated at the same time to monitor impacts of the winter storm, direct the County’s response efforts, and share timely information with the public. Meteorologists are forecasting significant winter weather conditions across the area, including an estimated 4-12 inches of snow over a two-day period, which could result in hazardous travel, downed trees, impassable roads, and power outages. North Carolina Emergency Management has described the upcoming snowfall from Winter Storm Gianna as potentially historic for the region, highlighting the need for residents to prepare carefully and exercise caution.
"It's certainly not common to declare a State of Emergency during two back-to-back weekends," said Brian Helms, Chairman of the
Union County Board of Commissioners. "We want to assure our community we are taking every precaution to keep our residents safe, our resources ready, and that our County leaders and law enforcement officers have the authority needed to make decisions they believe are in the best interest of the public during this winter storm."
This declaration includes a restriction pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 166A-19.31 and Chapter 14 of the Union County Code, which gives the Sheriff's Office authority to close roads impacted by hazardous conditions and issue citations to motorists who disregard emergency barricades. The declaration also allows the County's administrative team to increase funding allocated for emergency purposes.
The declaration also authorizes County Manager Brian Matthews to adjust county operations, facility access, staffing, and procure goods and services necessary to respond to the storm.
The State of Emergency applies to all areas under Union County jurisdiction. Municipalities may opt into the declaration and associated restrictions with consent from their governing body or mayor.
