NORTH CAROLINA (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Roy Cooper announced a State of Emergency on Monday afternoon in anticipation of Tropical Storm Debby.
North Carolina is expected to experience significant rainfall over the coming days, with certain regions projected to receive between 15 and 25 inches.
The storm may also bring strong winds and potentially dangerous inland flooding. The Governor’s declaration activates the State Emergency Operations Plan, facilitating life safety measures, emergency response efforts, and enabling the Department of Transportation and Department of Public Safety to effectively mobilize utility vehicles to restore power to affected areas swiftly.
“It is essential for the people of North Carolina to take precautions and prepare as this weather system approaches our state,” stated Governor Cooper. “Our Emergency Response Team is collaborating closely with local officials and stands ready to act as we continue to track the storm.”
Alongside the State of Emergency declared on Monday, Governor Cooper has sought a Pre-Landfall Disaster Declaration from FEMA on Tuesday. This declaration will enable direct federal assistance for emergency protective measures in North Carolina, including the provision of generators, food, water, shelter supplies, evacuation support, both non-congregate and congregate sheltering, medical aid, swift water rescue teams, urban search and rescue (USAR) teams, technical support, and other necessary response actions.
North Carolina Emergency Management has maintained close communication with FEMA in recent days to secure federal financial and resource assistance. The State Emergency Response Team is actively pre-positioning essential response assets and logistical supplies to ensure rapid support for local jurisdictions.
Residents are urged to have a plan in place and to have a reliable method for receiving weather alerts in the days ahead. Travel should be postponed if possible, as road conditions may deteriorate due to flooding. For the latest updates on road conditions across the state, visit DriveNC.gov.
