Good morning Wilmington!

I love how Port City people do things! When the weather calls for snow, some events get canceled—but some get created. Two Guys Grille in Porters Neck picked up a bunch of sleds, and Eagle’s Dare is daring you to come by for a snowball fight. Bundle up, grab some food or a beer, and let the winter magic begin!

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Governor Stein Declares State of Emergency

• Wrightsville Beach Weighs Weekend Parking Hikes

Governor Stein Declares State of Emergency as Winter Storm Nears North Carolina

WECT North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency ahead of a winter storm expected to bring snow and hazardous travel conditions starting Saturday. The move activates the State Emergency Response Team and positions the state to receive federal assistance if needed. Officials urged residents to stay off the roads, prepare for prolonged cold, and check on vulnerable neighbors as NCDOT crews pre-treat highways and emergency responders prepare for impacts lasting into next week.

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Wrightsville Beach Weighs Weekday Discounts, Weekend Hikes for Paid Parking

WWAY Wrightsville Beach leaders are considering changes to seasonal paid parking rates that would lower prices during the week and raise them on busy weekends. The proposal would charge $4 per hour Monday through Thursday and $7 per hour Friday through Sunday, replacing the current flat rates and eliminating premium parking spots. Town officials say the goal is to encourage weekday visits, reduce weekend congestion, and better balance the needs of residents, visitors, and local businesses during peak season.

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News Roundup

Local News

A rapidly intensifying “bomb cyclone” along the East Coast could bring North Carolina its heaviest snowfall in decades this weekend. Forecasters warn of widespread travel disruptions, possible blizzard conditions in hardest-hit areas, and coastal flooding as the storm strengthens and moves north from the Southeast. AccuWeather

Warming shelters across the Cape Fear region are opening to protect people experiencing homelessness as dangerously cold temperatures settle in. In New Hanover County, shelters like Warming Shelter ILM and Living Hope Day Center are operating with overnight and daytime services, while additional shelters in Brunswick County will open when temperatures drop below 40 degrees, offering warm beds, meals, and basic services.
WWAY News

Wilmington International Airport has activated its snow and ice plan as potential winter weather approaches the area. Airport officials say crews and equipment are ready and operations teams will be on site throughout the storm, while travelers are advised to check directly with airlines for flight updates and allow extra travel time.
WWAY News

What You Should Know

Ghislaine Maxwell claims 29 Jeffrey Epstein associates were shielded by secret Justice Department settlements. In a December habeas corpus petition, Maxwell argues that undisclosed deals with 25 men and four co-conspirators, who were never charged, violated her constitutional rights and undermined the fairness of her trial. Daily Mail

Spain will grant legal status and work permits to potentially hundreds of thousands of immigrants living in the country without authorization. The government plans to fast-track changes to immigration law to provide up to one year of legal residency, positioning Spain in contrast to stricter immigration approaches elsewhere and highlighting the economic benefits of legal migration for its aging workforce. NPR

What Might Surprise You

Journalist Don Lemon was arrested after entering a Minnesota church and recording anti-immigration enforcement protesters who disrupted a worship service, according to his attorney, following an incident that heightened tensions tied to federal immigration policies. Charges were not immediately clear, and the arrest came after a judge previously rejected prosecutors’ initial attempt to charge him. New York Times

Snowball Fight!

SUN FEB 1: Open at Noon, Fight at 2PM @ The Eagle's Dare - DT
❄️We’re saving the parking lot for winter magic. Barricades go up Saturday so Sunday can be all fresh snow—perfect for snowball fights and snow angels. Family-friendly vibes, hot drinks, and tasty bites to keep you warm. 🌨️Open at 12pm. Snowball fight at 2pm. Bundle up and come play. #snowdayfun #snowballl #warmdrinks

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Friday

Saturday

Sunday