The Deep Freeze: Lingering Ice and Bitter Cold Grip the Queen City

Morning: A Treacherous Start

Residents waking up this Monday, January 26, 2026, face the dangerous aftermath of a significant winter ice storm that blanketed the region over the weekend. While the heavy precipitation has moved out, the impact remains severe across the Charlotte metro area. Temperatures at daybreak are hovering in the low teens, creating a high risk for black ice on nearly all local surfaces. The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory, warning that wind chill values are expected to drop as low as 4 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit during the early hours, making even brief outdoor exposure dangerous without proper winter gear.

Afternoon: Sunshine with a Bitter Bite

As the city moves into the afternoon, the sky is expected to clear, offering plenty of sunshine. However, do not let the bright conditions be deceiving. The high temperature is forecast to reach approximately 38 degrees, only briefly climbing above the freezing mark. This limited warming means that the thick glaze of ice on secondary roads, sidewalks, and trees will likely persist throughout the day. The official Ice Storm Warning remains in effect until 1:00 p.m. today, as utility crews continue to work on power restorations and the removal of fallen limbs that have impacted infrastructure across the Carolinas.

Evening: Rapid Refreeze

Once the sun sets, temperatures will plummet rapidly under clear skies. We are projecting a low of 13 degrees overnight. Any slush or melted runoff from the afternoon sun will refreeze instantly, leading to another night of extremely hazardous travel conditions. If you must be on the roads after dark, extreme caution is required, particularly on overpasses, bridges, and shaded areas where ice is most likely to remain. Local officials strongly advise staying indoors to avoid the biting cold and the risk of slips or accidents.

Current Alerts and City Service Disruptions

• Cold Weather Advisory: In effect until Tuesday at noon for Mecklenburg and surrounding counties due to extreme wind chills.
• School Closures: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) are closed today. This closure includes all before-school and after-school enrichment programs and activities.
• Transit Delays: The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has suspended service until 10:00 a.m. this morning. No Express Bus Service will operate throughout the day.
• Sanitation Services: Solid Waste Services has suspended all trash, recycling, and yard waste collection for Monday. Collection is expected to resume Tuesday on a one-day delay.

Emergency officials urge all Charlotteans to remain patient as the city recovers from this winter event. Please ensure that pets are brought inside and continue to check on elderly neighbors as the bitter cold persists into the night.