From Hanks Realty Group

Gaston County doesn’t see winter storms like this very often—which is exactly why this weekend’s forecast deserves your full attention. A messy mix of snow, sleet, and ice is expected, and if history is any guide, ice will be the real problem. Roads glaze over, power lines sag, trees snap, and suddenly everyone remembers we’re not exactly Buffalo.

As a local real estate team, we think about homes the way engineers think about bridges: stress reveals weaknesses. Here’s how to protect your family, your house, and your sanity when winter shows up uninvited.

1. Treat Driving Like a Last Resort

Gaston County roads—especially secondary roads in Belmont, Dallas, and Stanley—are not first in line for treatment. Bridges over the Catawba River, low-lying roads near creeks, and shaded backroads will ice fast. Fill the gas tank, prep the car, and plan to stay put unless travel is truly necessary. Ice doesn’t care how confident you feel.

2. Stock the House Like You Mean It

Assume a2–3 day disruption. That means food, water, medications, pet supplies, and basic necessities. Power outages happen here more often than people expect during ice events, especially in older neighborhoods with mature trees. Candles are nice. Flashlights are smarter.

3. Ice Is the Real Villain

Snow is inconvenient. Ice is dangerous. Keep salt or ice melt on hand and treat walkways before the freezing rain starts. Driveways, porches, and steps turn into slip-and-slide lawsuits in about 30 minutes. Prevention beats regret.

4. Check on Neighbors—Especially the Older Ones

Gaston County still has plenty of folks on fixed incomes, older homes, and limited mobility. A quick knock or phone call can prevent a bad situation from getting worse. Strong communities aren’t built by HOAs—they’re built by people paying attention.

5. Protect Your Pipes

This one costs homeowners real money every winter storm. Let faucets drip during the coldest periods, open cabinet doors under sinks, and know where your main water shutoff is. Frozen pipes don’t politely crack—they explode, usually at 2 a.m.

6. Charge Everything

Phones. Laptops. Backup batteries. Portable chargers. Ice storms stress power infrastructure, and outages can last longer than expected in rural or wooded parts of Gaston County. A charged phone is peace of mind.

7. Dress for Traction, Not Style

Smooth-soled boots and icy driveways don’t mix. Wear shoes with actual grip when stepping outside. ER visits spike during ice storms, and nobody wants to explain a broken wrist that started with “I just went to grab the mail.”

8. Pay Attention to Local Conditions, Not Just the Forecast

Weather models give broad strokes. Your street tells the truth. Hills, shade, elevation, and proximity to water all matter here. Conditions in Mount Holly may differ from Dallas, even during the same storm. Stay alert.

9. Respect Tree Damage and Power Lines

Ice accumulation brings limbs down fast. Stay clear of hanging branches and never approach downed power lines. If a tree falls on your property, document it safely and call professionals. Heroics are overrated.

10. The Storm Isn’t Over When the Precipitation Stops

Ice lingers—especially in shaded areas, driveways, and side streets. Schools, offices, and businesses may reopen slowly. Be patient. The cleanup phase is where most accidents happen.

Final Thoughts from Hanks Realty Group

We love Gaston County because it still feels like home—but that also means we don’t always get the infrastructure response of a big metro when weather turns ugly. Preparation isn’t panic; it’s just good sense.

Take care of your home, look out for your neighbors, and give winter the respect it’s demanding this weekend. And if this storm has you thinking about home maintenance, upgrades, or long-term value protection, that’s our lane—we’re always happy to help.

Stay safe,

Hanks Realty Group