North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper | governor.nc.gov
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper | governor.nc.gov
Governor Roy Cooper signed an Executive Order today declaring a State of Emergency in anticipation of severe weather across North Carolina. Tropical Storm Debby, which has been downgraded from Hurricane Debby, poses significant risks including life-threatening flash flooding, riverine flooding, wind gusts up to 40 mph, and coastal impacts.
“This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it,” said Governor Cooper. “As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe.”
The Executive Order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan, allowing the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety to expedite actions necessary for public safety. This includes facilitating the movement of utility vehicles to address power outages and ensuring that vehicles carrying essential supplies such as food, medicine, fuel, livestock, poultry, and crops can operate without hindrance.
Governor Cooper and NC Emergency Management officials are advising residents to prepare for heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and potential power outages starting Tuesday through the end of the week. The combination of damaging winds and saturated soils may result in fallen trees and downed power lines.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions. State officials have provided several tips for personal preparedness:
- Have multiple ways to receive emergency information including watches and warnings.
- Ensure emergency alerts are enabled on cell phones and consider downloading a weather app.
- Develop an emergency plan detailing evacuation routes and potential shelters with family or friends.
- Assemble or update an emergency supply kit; guidance is available at ReadyNC.gov.
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways or around barricades.
- Know where to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued.
- Be prepared for nighttime storms by having multiple ways to receive warnings.
- Check local community services for emergency alert options.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions.
Further details can be found in the official State of Emergency declaration.
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