While the storm track of Hurricane Matthew remains uncertain, Governor Pat McCrory emphasized that the state is prepared should the track shift and encouraged citizens to stay alert.
“As Hurricane Matthew currently tracks 80 to 100 miles from the North Carolina border, any change in the storm track could change our conditions dramatically,”said Governor McCrory. “We are prepared to respond at a moment’s notice. Our emergency response teams and resources are in place and we continue to keep our guard up as we closely monitor the storm.”
Governor McCrory received the latest weather briefing and toured the Kinston Emergency Operation Center this afternoon. The Kinston Emergency Operations Center is one of three regional centers across the state deploying resources in response to Hurricane Matthew. North Carolina National Guard troops, swift water rescue teams and emergency medical teams are among the resources in place. The Kinston Center has deployed resources to support Williamston, New Bern and Elizabethtown.
Rainfall of up to 10-12 inches is expected in Brunswick and surrounding counties. Additionally, new rainfall totals project 5-6 inches of rain for counties in the northeast. Governor McCrory warned of possible power outages in coastal counties as winds of up to 60-70 miles per hour are possible.
The governor explained that local county officials determine evacuation schedules, however the state is standing by ready to assist. Surf City and Brunswick County are currently under a voluntary evacuation.
While at the Kinston Center, Governor McCrory received a call from President Barack Obama for an update on storm preparations and the coordination of state and federal officials. The governor also mentioned that he has offered assistance to South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Georgia Governor Nathan Deal.
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