NC officials urge residents to prepare as severe weather threat increases
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Gov. Josh Stein and state emergency officials are urging North Carolinians to prepare for potentially dangerous severe weather as the National Weather Service has issued a rare Level 4 moderate risk for parts of the state.
Officials said the storm system could bring damaging wind gusts of 74 mph or higher, large hail and tornadoes.
“Unusually severe weather is moving into North Carolina, bringing a risk of damaging wind gusts, thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes,” Stein said in a statement. “Please make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your phone and make a plan for how to keep yourself and your family safe.”
The severe weather risk stretches statewide, according to officials. Central North Carolina is under a Level 4 moderate risk, eastern North Carolina and the foothills are under a Level 3 enhanced risk, and parts of the mountains are under a Level 2 slight risk.
In response, North Carolina Emergency Management has activated State Emergency Response Team personnel and resources ahead of the storm’s arrival. The State Emergency Operations Center is monitoring forecasts and stands ready to deploy assistance to communities if needed.
Officials said available resources include Urban Search and Rescue teams, hazardous materials regional response teams, statewide firefighting resources, elements of the N.C. Forest Service and medical response assets through the Office of Emergency Medical Services.
“While North Carolina is no stranger to severe weather, the introduction of a Level 4 out of 5 moderate threat is very rare in our state,” NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray said in a statement. “It is imperative that all North Carolinians have a plan to protect themselves and their families and stay informed to take action when necessary.”
State officials are encouraging residents to enable emergency alerts on their cell phones, monitor local news and follow the National Weather Service and local emergency management offices for updates. They also recommend families make a plan now for where to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued.
