Moore County Urges Residents: Prepare Now and Plan to Stay Home and Off the Roads This Weekend
Updated: January 29, 2026 • Sandhills, North Carolina
Moore County officials are urging residents to finish preparations by Friday evening and plan to stay home and off the roads through the weekend as winter weather impacts increase across the Sandhills. County leaders say road conditions are expected to deteriorate overnight Friday and remain hazardous throughout the weekend.
This update is based on an official release from the Moore County Department of Public Safety issued January 29, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.
Why Moore County is Asking Everyone to Stay Off the Roads
The county says the safest plan starting Friday evening is to stay home and avoid travel. Staying off the roads helps first responders and road crews work safely, clear routes, and respond to emergencies. Officials specifically noted the importance of giving roadway priority to groups like NCDOT crews and first responders.
Sandhills Areas Impacted
This guidance applies across Moore County and surrounding Sandhills communities including Southern Pines, Pinehurst, Aberdeen, Carthage, Vass, Whispering Pines, Seven Lakes, and nearby areas. If you must drive locally for essential needs, plan for changing conditions, reduced traction, and limited access on some roads.
Power and Safety Planning
- Have a plan to stay warm in the event of a power outage and finalize that plan before Friday night. For preparedness tips, visit ReadyNC.gov.
- Watch out for thin ice on ponds and other bodies of water. Officials urge parents to talk with children about staying off the ice. Thin ice can be deadly for people and pets.
Stock Up: Food, Water, and Essentials
Moore County recommends stocking up now, since roads may remain in rough shape for several days due to the cold. Pull out your disaster kit and check it one more time.
Disaster Kit Checklist (Moore County Guidance)
- Water: 1 gallon per person for 3–7 days
- Food: enough non-perishable food for each household member
- Pet supplies: food and essentials
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Cell phone charging supplies and an AM/FM weather radio
- Winter clothing and blankets
- Fire extinguisher
- First aid kit
Travel Guidance: Stay Home Through at Least Monday
Moore County’s message is clear: plan to stay home and off the roads this weekend. Starting Saturday morning, officials recommend planning to remain off the roads until at least Monday to allow crews to clear routes and to reduce risks for drivers.
- Only call 911 for emergencies.
- Officials noted that stranded vehicles may be marked with yellow caution tape on the mirror or wrapping the vehicle. If you see yellow caution tape, first responders have checked the vehicle and it is not an emergency.
- For the most up-to-date roadway information, visit DriveNC.gov.
Closings, Delays, and Local Updates
Star 102.5 will continue to share Sandhills updates as conditions change. For closings, delays, and community announcements, stay safe and stay up to date online at Star1025FM.com.
Source: Moore County Department of Public Safety (Release #1: Immediate, Jan. 29, 2026 @ 1500 hours)