Agencies begin storm preparations, urge residents to do the same

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — It is officially the peak of hurricane season, and the southeastern coast of North Carolina could see some action is Hurricane Florence heats up.

The Americans Red Cross is double checking their supply inventories and making sure their shelters and resources are fully stocked, in the event of severe weather.

James Jarvis, who is with the Red Cross, says it is important to keep supplies on hand for you and your pets, and to keep track of valuables. He says the three things you can do to stay prepared are to get a kit, stay informed and be prepared.

“You want to put together an emergency preparedness kit because you want to be prepared to be on your own for up to three days,” said Jarvis. “First responders are going try to save lives, so the more self-sustaining that you are, that you can take care of yourselves, then they can focus on doing those other things to keep your overall community safe.”

County officials are also trying to make sure all of their resources are up and running. Emergency management departments are getting continuous updates, and they are making sure to keep residents updated.

Both New Hanover and Pender Counties have started teaching out to their local officials to discuss plans. New Hanover County is not activating their emergency center yet, but they will re-evaluate next week.

Both counties will also continue to push information it to residents through social media.

New Hanover County says it is still early, but they encourage residents to check out their website for tips and alerts.

You can download the American Red Cross mobile app to stay up to date on hurricane efforts and relief. You can also download the WWAY StormTrack3 app for your weather updates.