NORTH CAROLINA - North Carolina Governor Cooper has issued a State of Emergency ahead of Hurricane Ian remnants moving through the state.
Hurricane Ian has just made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 storm. Officials say this is one of the strongest hurricanes to hit the U.S. in years.
Cooper says he declared a State of Emergency Wednesday to activate the state’s emergency operations plan, waive transportation rules to help the transport of fuel and critical supplies, help first responders and the agriculture industry and protect consumers from price gouging.
“A State of Emergency is needed now so that farmers and those preparing for the storm can more quickly get ready for the heavy rain that is likely to fall in much of our state,” said Governor Cooper. “North Carolinians should stay aware, keep a close eye on the forecast and prepare their emergency supplies.”
Heavy rainfall and possible flooding and tornadoes are expected on Friday and Saturday in North Carolina.
Officials say the State Emergency Response Team will activate on Thursday at the State Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh and plans to move to 24-hour operations on Friday morning.
Cooper also authorized the activation of about 80 members of the North Carolina National Guard to assist as needed.
North Carolinians are advised to stay aware and keep a close eye on the forecast for the next several days. North Carolina is forecast to see 2-5 inches late this week and weekend, but 5-7 inches or more will be possible near the coast and along the Blue Ridge Escarpment.
Officials say gusty winds, isolated tornadoes, minor coastal flooding and hazardous marine conditions will also be possible. Isolated downed trees and power outages will be possible due to gusty winds and saturated soils.
The Governor and state officials advise these tips to make sure people are personally prepared:
- Have multiple ways to receive emergency information, including watches and warnings. Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on a cell phone and download a weather app.
- Have an emergency plan. Know where to go if there’s a need to evacuate. Make a plan to stay with family, friends or at a hotel. Public shelters should be a last resort.
- Gather some emergency supplies or refresh an emergency kit. Visit ReadyNC.gov for info on how to build an emergency kit.
- If people live at the coast, be aware if you live in a coastal evacuation zone. Visit KnowYourZone.nc.gov to see if you are located in a pre-determined evacuation zone. Learn your zone and listen for it if evacuations are ordered by local governments.
Click here to view the State of Emergency Order.
