Charlotte, NC – January 28, 2026 – Local News Update
Charlotte, NC — January 28, 2026 — Winter storm Fern causes school closures and power outages; CMS announces two-hour delay; Chance of snow this weekend increases.
Winter Storm Fern Causes School Closures and Power Outages
Charlotte, NC — January 28, 2026 — Winter storm Fern has significantly impacted Charlotte and the Carolinas, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and major disruptions. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced closures for Monday, January 26, due to icy road conditions and accumulating ice—the storm’s primary threat. A winter storm shelter has been set up at the Grady Cole Center in the Elizabeth neighborhood, operated by the American Red Cross. Officials urge people using the shelter to bring necessary supplies. Widespread power outages are anticipated across North Carolina and could last for several days, with Duke Energy offering an outage map for updates. The entire state is under winter storm warnings, ice storm warnings, and weather advisories until Monday. Authorities are also warning residents about dangerous black ice forming over the weekend. Comparisons have been drawn to the severe 2002 ice storm that left 1.8 million people without power, underscoring the seriousness of this weather event.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Announces Two-Hour Delay
Charlotte, NC — January 28, 2026 — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced a two-hour delay for Thursday, January 29, due to lingering icy conditions on school campuses. This follows a full closure on Monday and two remote learning days. The district cited unsafe conditions for buses, student drivers, and pedestrians as the primary reason for the delay. Officials are working to clear ice and debris ahead of reopening.
Chance of Snow This Weekend Increases
Charlotte, NC — January 28, 2026 — The chance of snow in Charlotte this weekend is increasing, just a week after a winter storm left piles of ice that are still lingering. Meteorologists are tracking the potential for snow to begin Friday night in the Mountains and move toward Charlotte Saturday morning, with the possibility of continuing for most of the day Saturday. While it’s too early to predict exact accumulations, initial models suggest 1-3 inches of snow, with higher totals possible if the event lasts longer. Residents are advised to stay updated with local weather forecasts as the weekend approaches.
Why It Matters Locally
These developments are crucial for Charlotte residents, affecting daily routines, safety, and preparedness for upcoming weather events.
