Gov. Josh Stein declared the state of emergency Saturday.

NORTH CAROLINA, USA — Gov. Josh Stein on Saturday declared a state of emergency as North Carolina prepares for heavy rainfall and potential impacts from Tropical Depression 9 or a future named storm, Imelda.

“North Carolinians across the state should prepare for tropical weather to bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding,” Stein said. “This State of Emergency will enable North Carolina’s State Emergency Response Team to mobilize resources and prepare for potential impacts. Forecasts remain uncertain, so it’s important that North Carolinians get prepared now, have emergency kits ready, and listen to local emergency guidance to stay safe and informed.”

The State Emergency Response Team is positioning swift water rescue teams, search-and-rescue task forces, law enforcement, National Guard personnel, and other resources to support local response and logistics.

Residents and visitors are urged to follow local government guidance and local news outlets for real-time updates. Many counties maintain public notification systems that residents can sign up for. For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media. For storm-preparation tips, visit here. 

North Carolina Emergency Management officials offered these safety tips for flooding and tropical storm conditions:

  • Listen to local weather forecasts, as flooding can occur with little notice.

  • Coastal residents should know their evacuation zone by visiting here.  

  • Enable emergency alerts on cell phones to receive National Weather Service notifications.

  • Obey barricades and road closures; do not attempt to go around them.

  • Avoid walking or driving through moving water  just 6 inches can knock someone down, and 2 feet can sweep away a vehicle.

  • Access the state’s more than 600 flood gauges and sign up for alerts here.  

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