Temporary shelter to open Thursday in Pender County due to Michael

PENDER COUNTY, NC (Press Release) — Pender County is tracking Hurricane Michael. In a preemptive move, the Pender County Department of Health and Human Social Services will open a temporary shelter at Burgaw Elementary School, 400 N. Wright St., in Burgaw.

The shelter will open Thursday, Oct. 11, at 9 a.m. and will close on Friday morning, Oct. 12.

“This temporary shelter will serve Pender County residents who may need shelter from storm effects of Hurricane Michael,” said Carolyn Moser, Pender County Department of Health and Human Services director.

Residents with pets who are seeking temporary shelter are instructed to check-in at the school and then take their pet to the Pender County Animal Shelter, located at 3280 New Savannah Rd. in Burgaw.

“If at all possible, we ask pet owners bring their cats and dogs in carriers,” said Moser. “They will be cared for properly at the shelter.”

Pet owners should have proof of vaccinations too.

“Hurricane Michael should be downgraded to a tropical storm once it reaches Pender County,” said Tom Collins, Pender County Emergency Management director. “The storm could bring high wind gusts, 2-4-inches of rainfall, and possibly spawn tornadoes. We urge residents to use caution. The good news is this storm is fast-moving.”

Pender County Emergency Management will post updates on the Facebook page at facebook.com/penderem and on the county’s website www.pendercountync/.gov. If you need assistance call the EM office at 910- 259-1210.