Ian is located about 60 miles east-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and is moving quickly northward. Heavy rain, strong wind gusts and higher than normal water levels are already impacting parts of North Carolina.
Warning: A hurricane warning has been issued for areas along and near the coast of NOrth Carolina.
Storm Surge: A storm surge warning remains in effect in North Carolina, including the lower Neuse River in North Carolina. This means life-threatening flooding from rising water moving inland from the coastline is expected.
Wind Threat: Power outages and some tree damage could occur in areas under hurricane and tropical storm warnings, especially in the Carolinas.
Tornadoes: A few tornadoes are possible Friday.
**A State of Emergency has been declared for North Carolina.** https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2022/09/28/governor-cooper-issues-state-emergency-advance-severe-weathere-ian
Evacuation Information
- Ready NC: Evacuation Orders and Evacuation Routes
Hurricane and Flood Safety Tips and Resources
- National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
- National Hurricane Preparedness: English|Spanish
- Ready.gov Disasters and Emergencies: Floods
- Ready.gov Disasters and Emergencies: Hurricanes
- American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flood.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Flood Safety Tips: English|Spanish
- CDC Preparedness and Safety for Hurricanes and Flooding: Guide
- FEMA – How to Prepare for a Hurricane: Guide
Steps to Keep Yourself Safe After Flooding
- Watch your step. Floodwaters often hide sharp and dangerous debris, like broken glass and metal. Floodwater can also be contaminated with oil, gasoline or sewage.
- Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear such as boots, gloves and safety glasses when moving debris.
- Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm, or if it is wet, to prevent being electrocuted. Report any utility issues to your local utility company.
- Flooded homes are hazards. Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering.
- Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
- Never drive into a road covered with flowing water. One foot of flowing water can sweep a car off the road; 2 feet will carry away an SUV or pickup. Even 6 inches of water can knock you off your feet. Never walk or drive through swift water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Respect barricades and posted signage. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around. You’re not only putting your own life at risk, but also the lives of first responders.
- If you encounter a dark traffic signal, treat it as a four-way stop.