North Carolina Officials Urge Preparedness as Hurricane Erin Approaches
As Hurricane Erin nears the North Carolina coastline, state officials are emphasizing the need for residents and visitors to stay alert. Governor Josh Stein, alongside key state leaders, has provided crucial updates on the storm’s impact and the measures being taken to ensure public safety.
Governor Josh Stein warned, “While Hurricane Erin is expected to remain offshore, North Carolinians along the coast must remain vigilant as coastal flooding and life-threatening rip currents continue to impact the region.” He assured that the State Emergency Response Team is ready to respond swiftly to protect both residents and visitors.
Emergency Management Director Will Ray stressed the importance of heeding evacuation orders, advising, “If you have been asked to evacuate, please do so now before conditions deteriorate and roads become impassable.” He cautioned against driving through floodwaters, which can be deceptively dangerous.
A state of emergency was declared by Governor Stein yesterday to facilitate resource mobilization and personnel deployment. Preparations include prepositioned swift water rescue teams and National Guard troops, with equipment such as boats, high-clearance vehicles, and aircraft ready for deployment. Additionally, two CH-47 helicopters from neighboring states stand by to transport essential supplies if needed.
For those evacuating the coast, a State Operated Disaster Shelter is set up at 113 Wilcox Street in Warrenton, NC, accommodating evacuees along with their pets.
Forecasts predict significant beach erosion, with waves reaching 15 to 20 feet, and extensive coastal flooding that could affect infrastructure. Tropical storm force winds are expected to hit especially the Outer Banks by late Wednesday and Thursday.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has been reinforcing vulnerable areas along NC 12 with heavy machinery in anticipation of flooding. Ferry services from Ocracoke to Hatteras remain operational while weather permits, aiding in the evacuation of over 2,263 people and 1,113 vehicles following Hyde County’s mandatory evacuation order.
“We have crews ready and are prepared for whatever Erin brings us,” stated Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins, urging people along the coast to stay indoors until conditions improve. He emphasized that even the outer bands of Erin could cause significant disruption.
Before traveling, residents are encouraged to check DriveNC.gov for real-time updates on road conditions.
North Carolinians are advised to take several precautionary steps:
- Stay informed by following official sources like the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies.
- Prepare a disaster kit with essentials including important documents, cash, prescriptions, and insurance policies.
- Plan your evacuation route and visit KnowYourZone.NC.Gov for more information.
- Avoid driving through floodwaters. For the latest roadway information, visit DriveNC.Gov.
For comprehensive information about hurricane preparedness, visit ReadyNC.Gov/Erin.
Click here for more tips on how to be prepared in the event of a hurricane.
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