North Carolinians should pay close attention to their local weather forecast, make sure they are prepared with what they need at home before Friday afternoon, and stay home if possible as ice on the roadways will likely create dangerous driving conditions.

A winter storm watch has been issued for much of North Carolina, including the Charlotte area, as the state prepares for snow later this week. The watch will go into effect in most counties on Friday morning and will last through Saturday morning.

Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency for North Carolina in anticipation of severe winter weather.

Snow is rare enough in Georgia that a few inches of accumulation can spark wonder in school children, but the fluffy white flakes can also be a major pain for those who need to worry about commuting to work or managing a household.

Gov. Brian Kemp has issued a State of Emergency for all of Georgia over the incoming winter weather. Here's what it says and what the forecast is.

We have issued a Weather Impact Alert for likely snow, sleet, freezing rain and rain for parts of north Georgia Friday through early Saturday morning.