Hurricane Dorian, a strong Category 4 storm as of 11 AM September 2nd, is still expected to approach the Carolinas by the middle of this week. That's according to the Wilmington office of the National Weather Service.
While NWS forecasters say Dorian should exit the area Thursday night, there is a great deal of uncertainty around her speed and track.
The National Hurricane Center reports the risk of life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds continues to increase for coastal North and South Carolina.
From the National Weather Service:
Immediate concerns for southeastern North Carolina include:
Ongoing minor coastal flooding with each high tide
Strong rip currents and worsening surf/maritime conditions tonight through the week.
Concerns developing this week include:
Increasing potential for flooding rain, storm surge, damaging winds and possibly tornadoes, especially developing during Wed and persisting through Thu
Uncertainty exists with the long term track of the storm as any minor adjustment could significant adjust the level of impact the area experiences
HOW TO PREPARE:
Make a plan.
Think about how you will talk and connect with your family after an emergency. You need to plan for different ways to get in touch with family members as decided by the type of emergency. Fill out a contact card for each family member to keep with them. This card can go in a purse, wallet or backpack.
Check with your children’s school or daycare to learn more about their emergency plans.
Identify an out-of-state contact, since it may be easier to make long-distance calls during an emergency. That person can help keep track of all family members. Be sure everyone knows the contact name and numbers.
Have an “In Case of Emergency” contact listed in your cell phone. Emergency personnel will often check ICE listings to get in touch with someone you know.
Build your emergency kit:
An emergency supplies kit is simply a group of items your family may need in or after an emergency. You most likely have the items around the house. You just need to put them together in a box.
- Water - 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
- Food – non-perishable and canned food supply for 3 to 7 days
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and National oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio with extra batteries
- Cell phone with charger
- First aid kit and first aid book
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Manual can opener for food
- Anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel
- Wrench or pliers to turn off water
- Blanket or sleeping bag – 1 per person
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, feminine supplies
- Extra house and car keys
- Important documents – insurance policies, copy of driver’s license, Social Security card, bank account records
- Fire extinguisher
- Cash and change
- Books, games or cards
Protect Your Home:
Protect Your Home
Take time before an emergency happens to protect your home. Learn what the dangers for your area are. Know what steps you need to take to protect your property. For example, if you are in a coastal area that is likely to be in the path of a hurricane or nor’easter, you may want to have storm shutters or plywood to board up windows.
Be sure you have proper insurance and copies of insurance papers in a safe, waterproof container.
Learn where and how to turn off services (gas, power and water) should you need to do so.
Planning ahead can help protect your property and peace of mind.
