Public Safety Officials Searching For Two Juveniles

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— from Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame

UPDATE 7:26 p.m. Thurs., Feb. 19

“…the two missing juveniles have been located and returned home safely. Thank everyone for their concerns.”

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On February 16, 2026, at approximately 7:00 a.m., the Vance County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call for service at 226 Little Mill Road, Henderson in reference to two missing juveniles.

The missing juveniles have been identified as:

  • Tikayla Gibbs, 16-year-old Black female, approximately 5’2” tall and weighing 120 pounds, brown and red hair.
  • Tyreek Gibbs, 17-year-old Black male, approximately 5’10” tall and weighing 120 pounds, black hair.

Both juveniles were last seen leaving their residence on foot on February 15, 2026.

The Vance County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating this incident. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these juveniles is encouraged to contact the Vance County Sheriff’s Office at 252-738-2200 or Henderson-Vance Crime Stoppers at 252-492-1925.

Tips may also be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips mobile application.

Cancellations, Closings, Delays

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From WIZS RADIO, 1450AM / 100.1FM

Thank you for following our coverage, and be sure to listen to the Weekday Wake Up with Steve Lewis M-F from 6a to 9a as well as TownTalk at 11a and Local News at 8a, 12p and 5p.

•••••••••

As of 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, coverage inside this post has concluded, and there are no announcements to list at this time.

Sincerely,

johncharles@wizs.com

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Duke Energy: Voluntarily Reduce Energy Use from 4-10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2

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— press release courtesy of Duke Energy

Extremely cold temperatures – 10 to 20 degrees below normal – are driving unusually high energy demand across the East Coast, including the Carolinas. Duke Energy is asking all Carolinas customers to voluntarily reduce their energy use from 4-10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, to help lessen the energy demand on the grid and reduce the potential of temporary power outages.

Customers can help ease strain on the grid by taking the following steps:

  • Reduce your thermostat to the lowest comfortable setting.
  • Avoid using major appliances such as washing machines, clothes dryers and dishwashers between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m.
  • Turn off any unnecessary devices, unused plug-ins and lights.
  • Electric vehicle owners: Charge midday, when demand is lower.

“We know it’s inconvenient to reduce electric use, but it makes a real difference.” said Gerald Wilson, Duke Energy vice president of grid operations. “We are taking every step to meet our customers energy needs, including maximizing our generation and purchasing power and working with large commercial and industrial customers who have demand response programs. We appreciate our customers’ cooperation, patience and understanding as we work to maintain reliable service across the Carolinas.”

Winter Weather

Prepare NOW For Expected Weekend Snowfall

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 — From Duke Energy

Duke Energy is preparing for a weekend of expected snow and gusty winds accompanied by ongoing frigid temperatures.

The company is urging customers to take steps now to stay safe as conditions worsen.

While dry, powdery snow is less likely to impact power equipment, strong wind gusts can still bring down trees and trigger outages. For safety, Duke Energy crews cannot perform elevated work in bucket trucks when wind speeds reach 30 mph or higher.

What customers should do now:

  • Make a plan and prepare an emergency kit:Charge phones, gather flashlights and extra batteries, and review other critical actions.
  • Download or update the Duke Energy app:Available on the Apple Store and Google Play.
  • Confirm Duke Energy account login info:Log in via My Account or mobile app to review and update contact info and communications preferences.
  • Sign up for outage alerts:Receive outage information and restoration updates by text, phone, or email.
  • Know how to report an outage:Submit reports online, via mobile app, by texting OUT to 57801 or calling 800.POWERON (800.769.3766).

Franklin County Opens Emergency Shelter In Louisburg

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Franklin County has opened an emergency shelter in Louisburg for residents who may lose heating ability in their homes. The Franklin County Department of Social Services (DSS) and Health Services lobby at 107 Industrial Dr. opened Saturday afternoon. It has limited space and limited food and should only be used as a very last resort for those in true need.

Details of This Shelter:

  • Location:107 Industrial Drive, Louisburg, NC 27549
  • Opening at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 24, 2026
  • Limited Space
  • Limited food
  • Limited Pet Sheltering available in a separate location.
  • Owners will be responsible for pet care
  • Shelter will be staffed
  • Security will be on site
  • Will operate 24/7
  • No transportation will be available to the shelter

What To Bring:

  • Bedding/blankets for all family members. Cots will be available in a limited amount
  • Medications
  • Dietary Needs Items
  • Food/snacks
  • General First Aid Items (Over-the-counter medications for headache, stomach, band aids, etc.)

Stay up to date with Franklin County-related information on the county’s inclement weather page at: www.franklincountync.gov/weather.

Vance County Logo

Vance County Emergency Warming Center Open At Former Eaton Johnson Gym

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Due to anticipated hazardous weather conditions, Vance County has opened an  emergency warming center at Eaton Johnson Gym to ensure the safety and well-being of residents who  may be impacted by power outages or unsafe conditions. 

The shelter will open @ 7pm on January 24, 2026 and will remain available as conditions warrant. 

Shelter Location: 

Eaton Johnson Gym 

500 North Beckford Drive 

Henderson, NC 27536 

Shelter Information: 

  • The shelter is intended for residents who are without power, heat, or whose homes are otherwise  unsafe due to weather conditions. 
  • Residents should bring any required personal medications, along with essential items such as  food and bedding. Limited food will be provided.  
  • Pets are not allowed. If accommodation is needed for pets during your stay at the warming  center, please contact 911 communications. 
  • All weapons and illegal substances are not allowed inside the shelter.  
  • No smoking will be allowed inside the shelter.  

Vance County Emergency Management continues to monitor weather conditions closely and is  coordinating with local and state partners to respond as needed. 

“Public safety is our top priority,” said C. Renee Perry, Vance County Manager. “Opening this warming  center ensures that residents have a safe, warm place to go should weather conditions worsen or power  outages become widespread.” Residents are encouraged to limit travel, remain weather-aware, and check  on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance. For updates, residents should monitor official  Vance County communications through the County website and social media platforms. 

John Graham Gym Will Open As Emergency Shelter For Warren Residents In Need

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— Information courtesy of Warren County

Warren County Emergency Services has activated the county’s emergency operations plan, in preparation for the winter storm expected to impact the area this weekend.

To support residents who may be affected by power outages or unsafe living conditions, Warren County will open a Central Emergency Shelter at the following location:

John Graham Gym
113 Wilcox Street
Warrenton, NC 27589

The shelter is scheduled to open on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. and will be open to the public. This shelter is intended for emergency situations only, including residents who lose power, lack adequate heating, or do not have a safe place to stay during the storm. Space will be limited, and residents are encouraged to seek shelter early if conditions worsen.

Individuals utilizing the shelter will be provided with a cot, a blanket, and nutritious meals, as available, based on current conditions and supply capabilities.

Residents should bring essential personal items such as medications, identification, and any special medical supplies they may require. While every effort will be made to accommodate needs, the shelter environment is designed for short-term emergency use.

Warren County Emergency Services will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official county communication channels, Warren County Facebook, Warren County Emergency Service Facebook page and to limit travel during hazardous weather conditions.

For emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency information, residents may contact Warren County Emergency Services at 252.257.1191.

Franklin County Government Offices Closed Monday, Jan. 26

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– Information courtesy of Franklin County Public Information Officer James F. Hicks, III
Franklin County government offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to potential inclement weather. Essential staff should report as department leadership advises.
Visit the county’s inclement weather page for more information on weather impacts for Franklin County: www.franklincountync.gov/weather

City, County Declare States Of Emergency As Winter Storm Bears Down On N.C.

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City and county leaders have declared states of emergency in advance of the weekend’s predicted winter storm, which could bring create dangerous conditions as it moves east over the next couple of days.

In a called emergency meeting of the City Council Thursday afternoon, Henderson Mayor Melissa Elliott said she would put in place the state of emergency for the city because of the chance of hazardous road conditions and the potential for power outages as a result of the storm’s sleet and freezing rain, expected to accumulate on roads, trees and utility lines.

On Friday morning, Vance County Board of Commissioners Chair Carolyn Faines also issued a proclamation declaring a state of emergency for the county through Tuesday of next week.

The proclamation by Faines further states that the county’s Emergency Operations Plan will be in effect, and “all applicable mutual assistance compacts and agreements are in effect and shall remain in effect until this proclamation expires or is rescinded.”

Delays/Closings Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025

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****BE ADVISED IF YOU ARE SEEING THIS, THE INFORMATION IS NOW OLD AND PERTAINED TO WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2025.  COVERAGE IN THIS POST HAS CONCLUDED.

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WIZS NEWS on the air at 8a, 12p, 5p M-F; and the “Weekday Wake Up” with Steve Lewis starting at 6 a.m. Mon-Fri

1450AM / 100.1 FM / Click on “LISTEN LIVE” on WIZS.com

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Granville County Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay for students and staff on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Vance County Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay for students and staff on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Warren County Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.