Voluntary evacuations in effect for Brunswick County due to flood dangers

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Brunswick County has issued a voluntary evacuation for unincorporated areas of the county due to the threat of heavy rain returning tonight and with it the potential for more flooding.

Sheriff John Ingram this afternoon released aerial video of flooding in the Brunswick Plantation community near the North Carolina-South Carolina state line (see video above). Radar estimates up to 16 inches have fallen in that area since early Friday.

With several more inches of rain expected through Monday, officials Saturday afternoon strongly encouraged residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to evacuate before weather conditions worsen and while the available light would make driving safer.

Brunswick County opened a shelter at West Brunswick High School at 550 Whiteville Road in Shallotte late Friday night due to flooding in the southwestern part of the county. The shelter will stay open until further notice and is expecting pets.

Residents who need help evacuating should contact the Brunswick County Emergency Operations Center at (910) 253-5383 for assistance with transportation.