In anticipation of Hurricane Ian's remnants passing through North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper issued a State of Emergency proclamation today. This will enable the state's Emergency Operations Plan to be activated, waive traffic laws to facilitate the transportation of fuel and essential supplies, assist first responders and the agricultural sector, and shield consumers from price gouging.

The Governor said that to better prepare for the expected heavy rain that will fall across much of North Carolina, a State of Emergency is required. He emphasized that residents should remain vigilant, closely monitor the weather forecast, and gather their emergency supplies.

The remnants of Hurricane Ian will bring heavy rain, a chance of flooding, and tornadoes to North Carolinians on Friday and Saturday. At the State Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh, the State Emergency Response Team will start mobilization on Thursday, and it intends to switch to 24-hour operations on Friday morning.

Executive Order 270

For vehicles used in relief operations before, during, and after severe weather, including debris removal and power restoration, and also the transportation of goods such as fuel, food, and medical supplies, Executive Order 270 waives the weight and size requirements. By temporarily suspending the weighing of trucks used to transport poultry, livestock, or harvested crops, the order also benefits North Carolina's agricultural industry. The order today's waiver of the transportation laws received the support of the Council of State.

Additionally, the state-wide implementation of North Carolina's anti-price gouging law against overcharging during a state of emergency.

Additionally, Governor Cooper gave the go-ahead for the activation of about 80 North Carolina National Guard personnel to provide support as required.

Residents of North Carolina are urged to remain vigilant and pay close attention to the forecast over the coming days. Late this week and over the weekend, 2 to 5 inches of rain are predicted for much of North Carolina, but 5-7 inches or more are possible along the Blue Ridge Escarpment and near the coastline. These rainfall totals have the potential to cause localized flash flooding, soil erosion, or landslides in the mountains, and the river rises. Depending on Hurricane Ian's final route, rainfall totals as well as the timeframe of the heaviest rain could still change.

As Hurricane Ian passes through the area late this week and over the weekend, there will also be a chance for blustery winds, minor coastal flooding, isolated tornadoes, and dangerous marine conditions. Saturated soils and gusty winds could result in power outages and isolated downed trees.

Read also: Hurricane Ian Unleashes Heavy Rains, Power Interruptions in Florida Despite Losing Intensity 

Important Tips and Reminders From Authorities

State officials, including the governor, made recommendations for ensuring that each individual is ready. North Carolina residents are urged to:

  • Have several ways to get emergency updates, such as watches and warnings. Download a weather app and make certain that emergency alerts are enabled at all times on their mobile devices.
  • Make a plan for emergencies. Learn where to go if an evacuation is required. Plan to stay with family, at a hotel, or with friends. The last resort should be a public shelter.
  • Amend an emergency kit or gather some extra supplies.
  • Check if residences are located in a coastal evacuation zone, as well as the safety measures to be done. Check for power outages, road closures, and other announcements, the NC Governor Roy Cooper website reports.

Related article: Florida Deploys National Guard; Millions Ordered to Evacuate as Hurricane Ian Draws Near