A satellite image of Hurricane Helene on September 26, 2024 (Image: NOAA)
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper warned residents on Thursday to prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Helene, which is expected to bring heavy rains, flash flooding and power outages to the state. “This is an unusually dangerous storm that threatens to bring heavy rain and potentially catastrophic flooding tonight and tomorrow for central and particularly western North Carolina,” Cooper said. “When tropical weather crosses into our mountains, it can be deadly.”
Three years ago, Tropical Storm Fred devastated mountain communities with severe flooding, and Hurricane Helene poses a similar threat, the governor said. Cooper noted that the recent coastal storm that dumped more than 20 inches of rain on parts of southeastern North Carolina serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of severe weather. “We have to be clear: heavy rains and winds are coming, beware and prepare. Travel will be dangerous,” Cooper said, adding that the state is preparing for the unexpected.
The governor activated 175 soldiers and airmen from the North Carolina National Guard to assist in the response and rescue efforts. Emergency management officials have also deployed swift water rescue teams and urban search and rescue teams to help affected areas.
“Our thoughts are with our friends in Florida and other southern states that are being hit first, and our priority here is to protect lives and manage the impact of the storm on our communities here in our state, as it arrives,” Cooper said.
Helene is forecast to bring over a foot of rain to parts of western North Carolina, which could lead to significant flash flooding, landslides and river flooding. The governor urged residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate if necessary and avoid travel, especially in the foothills and mountains. “If you are told to evacuate, get out of the danger zone. Make a plan now to stay with friends or family if you are in an area that could likely be flooded,” Cooper said.
The state has already experienced power outages affecting around 14,000 customers, primarily in the western regions and that number is expected to rise, said the North Carolina Emergency Management Director William Ray.
Ray said FEMA has approved North Carolina’s request for federal assistance in response to the hurricane. President Joe Biden formally approved the emergency declaration Thursday morning. A FEMA team is now assisting the state’s emergency operations.
There are currently 18 local states of emergency declared, with more expected. Three shelters are open in western North Carolina, and the state is preparing to open more as needed, according to Ray.
“Please do not drive through water and respect the barricades and road closures for those that are in flood prone areas, ” Ray said. “Make sure you’re informed that you have a plan of action to quickly evacuate if necessary, and that you’re receiving information from reliable source.”