This week NC ARES members participated in a large scale emergency training exercise. Simulating the arrival of a major snow storm, similar to those in 2021 and 2023, OES teams, Red Cross members, representatives from CalFire, PG&E, and local Sheriff, and Cities of Nevada City and Grass Valley, plus Placer County OES, gathered at the NC Emergency Operations Center for a briefing. From there teams were deployed to open a emergency shelter and evaluate damage from the “Snownado” storm. ARES members AI6MC Cal, and N6ERL Peter provided emergency Comms between the EOC and Emergency Shelter in Nevada City. Voice and Winlink messages were passed including a photo via Packet Winlink (slow, so not recommended). The event was a huge success, and a great way to introduce ARES to the wider NC Emergency Services Community.