Press Releases

The Division of Employment Security (DES) has announced that the following counties have been approved for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) due to the effects of Hurricane Matthew: Craven County, Martin County, Tyrrell County, and Washington County.

RALEIGH – Floodwaters are still at record levels across much of eastern North Carolina. One of the hardest hit areas is Robeson County and the town of Lumberton. Governor Pat McCrory visited the area on Wednesday to survey the damage and assess needs.

State environmental health experts are cautioning residents affected by the floodwaters from Hurricane Matthew to exercise extreme caution when reentering their homes. Hazards include electrical, wildlife, mold, sewage and contaminated food.

As of early Sunday morning, four areas remain in a major flooding condition as river levels begin to drop. According to predictive analysis by North Carolina Emergency Management officials, all rivers are forecast to be below flood stage by Oct.

The State Emergency Response Team continues to coordinate the ongoing recovery efforts of local, state and federal agencies throughout the counties affected by Hurricane Matthew.

A traffic shift that allows a lane of I-95 South to be open near mile marker 78 close to the Johnston-Harnett County line is now in place. The southbound side of the highway at that location was washed away by flood water from Hurricane Matthew earlier in the week.

Governor Pat McCrory provided updates on the state's ongoing recovery and relief efforts in response to flooding brought by Hurricane Matthew.

Hundreds of animals in eastern North Carolina have been rescued since Hurricane Matthew struck the state on Oct. 8. Flood victims who are missing a pet should contact their local shelter or humane society as soon as possible to recover their dog or cat.

In the wake of Hurricane Matthew, state and federal officials caution North Carolinians to be alert for individuals attempting to take advantage of residents making home repairs, those wanting to donate to victims or those trying to obtain vital information under false pretenses.

Organizations operating shelters for Hurricane Matthew survivors are not able to accept food donations from individuals or organizations such as churches and civic groups.