North Carolina officials are readying for the remnants of Hurricane Ian and asking residents to keep a close watch on the weather. A tropical storm warning is in effect for parts of the Triad including Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, and Randolph counties. It’s expected that the storm will impact much of the state on Friday, with gusty winds and rain forecasted. Guilford County schools will operate remotely and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County schools are closed Friday due to the weather.
At a press conference Thursday afternoon, Governor Roy Cooper said the storm may be unpredictable and all residents should be prepared.
"This storm can still be dangerous and even deadly. Heavy rains, up to 7 inches in some areas, are likely to bring flooding. Landslides are a threat in our mountains and there’s a chance of tornados statewide," Cooper said. "Coastal flooding, heavy rain, and gusty winds are likely as this storm passes through. "
Most important, don’t drive through water on the roads. Many people have died in past storms when their vehicles were caught in floodwaters. We’re seeing people being rescued from cars in Florida right now. Don’t take the chance.
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) September 29, 2022
Cooper issued a State of Emergency Wednesday ahead of the storm, which eases rules on fuel transportation and critical supplies. It also protects consumers from price gauging and allows the state to seek federal support if needed.
Cooper says North Carolinians should emergency plan in place. State officials offer these tips to stay safe:
- Have multiple ways to receive emergency info, including watches and warnings. Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your cell phone and download a weather app.
- Have an emergency plan. Know where you would go if you need to evacuate. Make a plan to stay with family, friends or at a hotel. Public shelters should be a last resort.
- Gather some emergency supplies or refresh your emergency kit. Visit ReadyNC.gov for info on how to build an emergency kit.
- If you live at the coast, you should know if you live in a coastal evacuation zone. Visit KnowYourZone.nc.gov to see if you are in a pre-determined evacuation zone. Learn your zone and listen for it if evacuations are ordered by local governments.
- Check to see if your community offers emergency alert services for its residents.
- Avoid unnecessary travel.