Flooding is still a major concern for parts of eastern North Carolina. Flood warnings continue for many local waterways including the Neuse River at Fort Barnwell, Trent River at Pollocksville, Chicod Creek near Simpson and Swift Creek near Streets Ferry. A coastal flood advisory is in effect for coastal counties and areas adjacent to the Pamlico Sound.
Catastrophic flooding is expected in Kinston similar to flooding experienced during Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Many roads are impassible due to high water or road damage. Expect these conditions to worsen as rivers continue to rise. Be prepared to evacuate if you live in low lying or flood prone areas.
Here's information on forming emergency/evacuation plans from the National Hurricane Center:
Emergency Plans
Develop and document plans for your specific risks.
- Protect yourself and family with a Family Emergency Plan - [PDF]
- Be sure to plan for locations away from home
- Business owners and site locations should create Workplace Plans
- Make sure schools and daycares have School Emergency Plans
- Pet owners should have plans to care for their animals. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention offer information on animal health impacts in evacuation shelters.
- Prepare your boat and be aware of marine safety if you are on or near the water.
Health & Environment
Follow guidelines to guard your community's health and protect the environment during and after the storm.
- Review the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) health considerations before, during, and after a storm.
- Remember to follow the U.S. Food & Drug Administration's (FDA) food and water safety guidelines during disasters.
- Review the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggestions for health and environmental safety in disaster preparedness.
Evacuation
- Review the FEMA Evacuation Guidelines to allow for enough time to pack and inform friends and family if you need to leave your home. FOLLOW instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if ordered!
- Consider your protection options to decide whether to stay or evacuate your home if you are not ordered to evacuate.
Recover
- Wait until an area is declared safe before returning home.
- Remember that recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process.
Resources
