Governor Pat McCrory has ordered state agencies to prepare for possible flooding ahead of a variety of weather systems, including Hurricane Joaquin, and is urging all North Carolinians to do the same.
“We’ve had a fair amount of rain during the past week and the ground is saturated in many places,”
Governor McCrory said.
“The combination of wind gusts from various weather systems and any additional rain from Joaquin could lead to downed trees and power outages in many areas, not just the coast. If you haven’t downloaded the free ReadyNC app for real-time weather, flooding, traffic and shelter information, now is the perfect time to do so.”
Public Safety Secretary Frank L. Perry said emergency management officials are coordinating with local officials to ensure they have what they need and are going through checklists to be sure their teams and supplies are ready. He encouraged all North Carolinians to do the same: review emergency plans, gather or update emergency supplies and stay tuned to local news.
“We can expect flooding in poor-drainage spots and low-lying areas,” State Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry cautioned. “Regardless of the impact of Hurricane Joaquin, North Carolina has the potential for life-threatening flooding within the next week. We don’t know yet how much or how widespread the flooding will be, but we know there will be flooding.”
Sprayberry stressed that all areas of the state are susceptible to flooding, not just coastal areas. To ensure your family is storm ready, he suggested
- Be sure your emergency supplies kit has enough bottled water and non-perishable food to sustain each family member for three to seven days. Include a weather radio, flashlight, extra batteries, toiletries, change of clothes, blankets or sleeping bag, rain gear and appropriate footwear. Also include copies of important documents, such as birth certificates and insurance policies.
- Plan for your pets. Gather supplies for your pet and put them in an easily-accessible container.
- Prepare your home. Clean out gutters and clear property of debris that could damage buildings in strong winds. Supplies, such as lumber and shutters, should be purchased now, and window casings pre-drilled.
- Determine if you are in a flood plain or flood-prone area.
- Know evacuation routes for your area. Listen to local officials and evacuate as instructed.
- Stay tuned to local news for the latest advisories from the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center (NHC), as well as state and local emergency management officials.
Secretary Perry said most storm-related deaths are caused by flooding. “If you see standing water, do not try to walk or drive through it,” he cautioned. “Remember: turn around, don’t drown.”
For more information, go to ReadyNC.org or download the free ReadyNC app for real-time weather, flooding, traffic and shelter information.
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