Winston-Salem Faces Winter Weather Challenges and Community Updates

Winter Storm Impacts Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is grappling with a winter storm that has brought significant snowfall and strong winds, creating hazardous travel conditions throughout the region. As of midday Saturday, parts of the Triad area have received approximately 2.5 inches of snow, with higher elevations reporting up to 5 inches. The National Weather Service has issued warnings advising residents to avoid travel due to white-out conditions and reduced visibility. Local authorities are actively working to clear roads and ensure public safety.

Wake Forest University Closes Due to Weather

In response to the severe weather, Wake Forest University’s Reynolda Campus, including Wake Downtown and other university sites in Winston-Salem, will be closed on Saturday, January 31, and Sunday, February 1. All classes and events are canceled during this period. The men’s basketball game against NC State, scheduled for noon on Saturday, will proceed as planned, with shuttles operating between the campus and Joel Coliseum. The university advises students, faculty, and staff to stay updated through official channels for further information.

NASCAR Postpones Preseason Race at Bowman Gray Stadium

The NASCAR preseason exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium has been postponed to Monday night due to the ongoing winter storm. Originally set to begin on Saturday, the event was rescheduled to Sunday and then to Monday as snow and ice blanketed the Winston-Salem area. NASCAR officials emphasized the importance of fan safety in their decision to delay the race. The event is now scheduled for Monday, February 2, at 11:00 AM ET, with coverage available on FS2 and MRN.

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Settles Debt with NCDPI

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools has paid off its $3.4 million debt to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. The district’s overall budget deficit was found to be more than $46 million, according to a state audit. The payment was confirmed during a hearing with the state board of education appeals panel, marking a significant financial milestone for the district.

Community Events and Closures

Due to the severe weather conditions, several community events and government operations have been affected. Forsyth County government offices, including all library branches and the animal shelter, are closed. All county parks are also closed until further notice. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official channels for updates on closures and event rescheduling.

Sources

• Snow, strong winds create hazardous travel conditions throughout the region
• Wake Forest will be closed Saturday, Jan. 31, and Sunday, Feb. 1
• NASCAR delays preseason race at Bowman Gray Stadium to Monday
• Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’ debt to NCDPI ‘paid in full’