New Hanover County officials met with Emergency Management staff Monday morning to discuss plans for preparing for Hurricane Florence. The storm appears to be on a collision course with the Cape Fear region later this week, and is currently a oowerful category 4 hurricane.
Local officials say this is not a storm to be underestimated.
By the time Florence reaches the coast Thursday night or Friday morning, it is forecast to be a powerful and dangerous hurricane.
North Carolina has only been hit by one Category 4 hurricane – Hazel - in 1954.
Schools have already been closed, mandatory evacuations have been ordered, and a state of emergency declared in New Hanover and neighboring counties.
New Hanover County Commissioner Woody White.
“I personally spoke with Governor Cooper a couple of hours ago and support his request to President Trump to declare North Carolina and emergency disaster area. He also told us that he has requested, activated 200 National Guards with thousands more available should that be necessary.”
The first tropical storm force winds are expected in Wilmington sometime Wednesday.