The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring a potential low-pressure system that could bring heavy rainfall to the Carolinas this weekend. The system may develop along a remnant frontal boundary near the southeastern U.S. Atlantic coast.
As of Thursday morning, forecasters raised the chance of tropical or subtropical development to 60% over the next seven days. Conditions are only marginally favorable, but further development could occur by early next week.
Even if a named system does not form, the NHC expects widespread rain and thunderstorms across the Southeast. Areas along the Florida and Carolina coastlines may see the most significant impacts starting this weekend.
During this hurricane season, North Carolina is introducing Know Your Zone, a tiered evacuation system that highlights areas most vulnerable to storm surge from hurricanes and tropical storms, and other hazards. If it becomes necessary, local officials will order evacuations using pre-determined zones created by coastal counties. The Know Your Zone lookup tool is a new color-coded interactive map you can use to determine the evacuation zone where you live, work, or are visiting based upon street address.
During this time, officials are also recommending that all North Carolina residents prepare for possible power outages from hurricane damage. The following emergency items are suggested for all homes in our our state;
- Car charger for cell phones and other devices
- Clean drinking water (recommended 1 gallon per person per day, minimum three days)
- Flashlights
- Batteries: Extra batteries for all of your devices
- Weather radio/clock
- Non-perishable food
- First aid kit
