Gov. Stein, emergency officials urge North Carolinians to prepare for Hurricane Isaias impacts

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Gov. Josh Stein and North Carolina emergency management officials are urging residents to prepare for possible flooding and gusty winds this weekend as Hurricane Isaias approaches the Gulf Coast.

Although the hurricane is not expected to make landfall in North Carolina, officials warn that the storm could bring heavy rainfall, localized flooding and hazardous travel conditions to parts of the state.

“The best thing for North Carolinians to know right now: Prepare, don’t panic. Make sure you are signed up for local emergency alerts, prepare an emergency kit in case you lose power, and do not drive through flooded roads,” Stein said. “Take care of your loved ones and check on your neighbors too.”

State emergency management officials are taking precautions ahead of the storm, including activating portions of the State Emergency Response Team and positioning rescue resources across North Carolina.

“Portions of the State Emergency Response Team are activated and swift water rescue teams, state urban search and rescue elements, and other response assets are being pre-positioned across the state to quickly respond to any community that experiences impacts,” said North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray. “State emergency managers have been in communication with local partners to support any needs they may have. All residents should be prepared by staying informed and having a plan to protect yourself and your family if hazardous weather impacts your community.”

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is also monitoring the storm and preparing to respond to potential roadway flooding and other weather-related hazards.

“NCDOT is prepared to respond as the storm approaches this weekend. We are closely monitoring conditions and will take action to keep roads safe and accessible once it is safe for crews to do so,” Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson said. “We encourage motorists to monitor the storm and avoid travel where there could be anticipated impacts.”

State officials recommend several precautions ahead of the storm:

• Stay informed: Monitor weather forecasts and alerts from the National Weather Service, local news outlets and emergency management agencies.
• Have an emergency plan: Follow instructions from local officials and prepare for possible power outages or flooding.
• Avoid flooded roads: Never attempt to drive through floodwaters. Check DriveNC.gov for the latest road conditions.
• Charge electronic devices: Keep cell phones, portable chargers and spare batteries charged.
• Limit unnecessary travel: Stay off the roads during periods of heavy rain and flooding whenever possible.

Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring forecasts and emergency alerts throughout the weekend.

For additional storm updates and preparedness information, visit ReadyNC.gov/Isaias.