Ice Storm 2026: The Homeowner’s Emergency Guide for Cabarrus County

With Governor Stein declaring a State of Emergency for North Carolina as of January 22, 2026, the approaching winter storm is no longer just a "possibility"—it is an urgent reality for our community¹. Forecasters are predicting up to 0.5" to 1" of ice for the Cabarrus County area, which can lead to significant power outages and property damage².

As your local real estate expert, I want to make sure your home is as protected as possible before the ice hits this Saturday. Here is your essential, "panic-free" winterization checklist.

1. The "Drip and Open" Rule

Frozen pipes are one of the most common—and expensive—consequences of an ice storm. To prevent this:

• Locate your exterior-wall sinks: Identify any faucets located on walls that face the outside³.
• Start the drip: Turn these faucets to a pencil-thin drip to keep water moving⁴.
• Open the cabinets: Open the cabinet doors underneath these sinks so the warm air from your home can reach the plumbing⁵.

2. Charge, Prep, and Stockpile

Ice accumulation often brings down power lines. Take these steps now while the lights are still on:

• Battery Power: Charge all backup batteries, portable chargers, and devices immediately⁶.
• Drinking Water: Fill clean pitchers with water. If a pipe bursts and you have to shut off your main valve, you will need a supply for drinking and cooking⁷.
• Special Note for Well-Water Users: If the power goes out, your well pump will stop working, cutting off your water entirely⁸. Pro-tip: Fill your bathtub with water now so you have a reservoir for flushing toilets⁹.

3. Detach and Wrap Your Exterior Spigots

The most frequent mistake homeowners make is leaving the garden hose attached¹⁰.

• Disconnect the Hose: Even with "frost-proof" spigots, a connected hose traps water inside the pipe. When that water freezes, it expands and can burst the pipe inside your wall¹¹.
• Avoid the "Monday Flood": You often won't realize a pipe has burst until the thaw begins on Monday and your living room starts flooding¹². Disconnect your hoses now and add a foam insulator cover if you have one¹³. This 30-second task can save you a $500 insurance deductible¹⁴.

Local Updates & Emergency Resources

• Schools: Cabarrus County Schools have already cancelled all weekend events for January 24–25¹⁵.
• Power Outages: Do not call 911 for power outages unless there is a life-safety emergency. Report outages directly to Duke Energy at 800-POWERON¹⁶.
• Travel: With the heavy ice accumulation predicted, please stay off the roads this weekend to allow emergency crews to work¹⁷.

Stay safe and stay warm, Kannapolis! If you have questions about where your main water shut-off valve is or need a recommendation for a local contractor after the storm, don't hesitate to reach out.