A winter storm was expected to reach the Carolinas on Friday, and it could cause power outages. Snow, sleet, and potentially freezing rain were expected to fall across North Carolina and part of South Carolina on Friday,

Duke Energy also encourages people who use a generator to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and not use them in a closed space, like a garage. The best advice the company can give is to be prepared for the worst.

Duke Energy Carolinas customers will see their electric rates fall starting Jan. 1 as part of an annual adjustment for the cost of fuel used to generate electricity.