Winter Weather Advisory in Surry County: Is Your Home Ready for Freezing Rain?
Living here in the foothills of North Carolina, we know that winter doesn't always mean fluffy white snow. More often than not, a winter weather advisory in Surry County brings the dreaded mix of sleet and freezing rain. While snow is beautiful, ice is destructive. It weighs down trees, snaps power lines, and turns our driveways in Elkin, Dobson, and Mount Airy into skating rinks.
When the temperature hovers right around 32 degrees, the risk to your home increases significantly. Freezing rain can cause damage that isn't just inconvenient—it can be costly. As your local insurance agent, I want to help you stay ahead of the storm. Here is a practical guide to getting your home "ice-ready" before the precipitation starts falling.
Preparation at a Glance
1 - 2 Hours
Pipe wrap, Ice melt, Flashlights
Insulate Your Pipes (Especially in Crawlspaces)
In North Carolina, many of our homes are built on crawlspaces rather than basements. When freezing rain hits and temperatures drop, these areas get incredibly cold. A frozen pipe that bursts can cause thousands of dollars in water damage in minutes.
- Locate exposed pipes: Check unheated areas like the garage, attic, and crawlspace.
- Wrap them up: Use foam pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape. In a pinch, even old towels secured with duct tape can help.
- Drip the faucets: Keep a trickle of water running on the coldest nights to keep water moving.
Manage Trees and Overhanging Branches
The weight of ice is deceptive. Just a quarter-inch of ice accumulation can add hundreds of pounds to tree limbs. In heavily wooded areas around Pilot Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway, falling branches are the number one cause of power outages and roof damage during winter storms.
If you see dead limbs hanging over your roof or driveway, safely remove them before the storm starts. If they are near power lines, do not touch them—call Duke Energy or Surry-Yadkin EMC immediately.
Bill's Insurance Pro Tip
"Many homeowners assume all winter damage is covered, but maintenance matters. If a tree branch falls on your roof due to the weight of ice, that is typically a covered peril. However, if a pipe bursts because you turned the heat off completely while on vacation, that claim might be denied due to negligence. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even if you aren't home!"
Clear Gutters to Prevent Ice Dams
We just finished the fall leaf season here in Surry County, which means your gutters might still be full of pine needles and leaves. When freezing rain hits, clogged gutters prevent water from draining.
This water freezes at the edge of your roof, creating an "ice dam." As more ice melts from the warmth of your attic, the water backs up behind the dam and seeps under your shingles, leaking into your ceiling. A quick clean-out now saves a major headache later.
Stock Your Emergency Kit
When the ice hits, travel on I-77 or Hwy 21 can become impossible. You should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
For a comprehensive list of what to pack, I recommend checking the ReadyNC.gov website, an excellent resource from the NC Department of Public Safety.
Stay Safe and Warm, Surry County
Winter weather advisories are a part of life in North Carolina, but they don't have to be a disaster for your home. By taking these proactive steps, you can protect your property and keep your family safe.
If you are unsure about what your homeowners policy covers regarding ice damage, fallen trees, or food spoilage from power outages, give our office in Elkin a call. We'd rather you know your coverage before the storm hits.
Need to Review Your Policy?
Contact Bill Layne Insurance for a comprehensive review of your home and auto coverage.
About the Author
Bill Layne
Bill Layne is the owner and principal agent at Bill Layne Insurance, serving Elkin, Surry County, and the broader North Carolina region for over 20 years. With deep roots in the community, Bill specializes in helping local families understand their coverage options for home, auto, and life insurance. He is dedicated to providing friendly, expert advice to ensure his neighbors are protected against the unexpected.