North Carolina Braces for Severe Weather as State Officials Urge Vigilance
As North Carolina faces the threat of severe weather, Governor Josh Stein has provided important updates on the measures the state is taking to ensure public safety.
“As this storm moves across the state, North Carolinians should stay alert and be prepared to take cover if severe weather develops nearby,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our State Emergency Response Team is activated, closely monitoring conditions, and ready to respond. Please keep your phones charged and nearby for any emergency alerts and be ready to take shelter if needed.”
Central and eastern regions of North Carolina are expected to experience widespread thunderstorms today, with some potentially escalating to produce damaging winds and strong tornadoes. These tornadoes could affect multiple counties as they move. A formidable line of storms currently in western North Carolina is anticipated to shift eastward throughout the afternoon and evening. This intense weather system may bring wind gusts exceeding 75 mph and could develop into tornadoes. Due to the swift movement of these storms, residents will have limited time to seek safety, highlighting the need for multiple ways to receive weather alerts. The thunderstorms and high winds pose a risk of downed trees and power outages, followed by a sharp drop in temperatures.
In response to these threats, North Carolina Emergency Management activated the State Emergency Response Team yesterday, mobilizing personnel and resources to manage severe weather impacts. The State Emergency Operations Center is actively tracking weather forecasts, and NC Emergency Management stands ready to deploy emergency response assets across the state as needed. Available resources include Urban Search and Rescue Teams, hazardous materials regional response teams, statewide firefighting resources, NC Forest Service units, medical response assets via the Office of EMS, and more.
“We have seen multiple tornado warnings so far today and we will continue to see the chance of severe weather throughout the day,” said NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray. “All North Carolinians need to remain weather aware today and have a plan to take action to protect your family when these storms impact your community.”
For preparation tips and more information, residents can visit ReadyNC.Gov.
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