Governor Pat McCrory has declared a State of Emergency in all 100 counties in preparation for severe weather that is predicated to cause severe flooding throughout the state. At a news conference at the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center, the governor said that weather systems, independent of Hurricane Joaquin, are likely to dump flooding rains on the state. Hurricane Joaquin will increase rainfall totals should it make landfall in North Carolina. Presently, the hurricane is predicted to brush the Outer Banks.
“We’re hoping for the best, but hope is not preparation nor is it a plan,” Governor McCrory said. “I’ve ordered all state agencies to begin preparation for the severe weather, particularly flooding, that is going hit just about every corner of the state during the next few days.”
The governor signed an executive order authorizing the state of emergency which will waive hour and weight restrictions for truck drivers responding to the storm. The waivers particularly help farmers and electric utility crews working to restore power.
The governor noted that fallen trees could be a particular danger given much of ground in the state is saturated after rains that have fallen throughout the state during the past week. The governor said the state is contacting federal emergency partners and will activate Emergency Operations Center Friday morning.
Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry said officials are preparing for widespread flooding in areas across the state.
“Regardless of the impacts of Hurricane Joaquin, North Carolina has the potential for life-threatening flooding,” cautioned Perry. “We want everyone to remember to ‘Turn around, don’t drown.'”
Search and rescue teams as well as National Guard soldiers, Highway Patrol troopers and Department of Transportation crews are preparing for the weather.
“NCDOT crews are preparing for this storm and will remain on standby as we continue to monitor its track,” Transportation Secretary Nick Tennyson said. “We are ready to shift resources as necessary to address any impacts, and we urge travelers throughout the state to use extreme caution and avoid driving on flooded roadways.”
The governor asked citizens to update and replenish emergency kits with bottled water, non-perishable food, a weather radio, copies of important documents, flashlights, batteries and any supplies and medications for pets.
For the latest information on the oncoming weather, the governor advised citizens to stay tuned to local media and listen for updates from the National Weather Service. Information is also available at www.ReadyNC.org and at the ReadyNC mobile app which can be downloaded for free.