Gov. Stein declares state of emergency for NC counties to assist with Chantal recovery efforts

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – North Carolina Governor Josh Stein issued a state of emergency to help “facilitate and support long-term recovery efforts” over a week after Tropical Storm Chantal brought extreme rain and flooding to the region, according to a news release.

This move is critical to ensure that state and federal recovery is available for areas most heavily impacted by the storm, North Carolina leaders said.

“Tropical Storm Chantal cost some of our neighbors their lives and others their livelihood and property. We must do everything we can to support them as they get back on their feet,” Governor Stein said in a statement. “This state of emergency will help get North Carolinians the support they need and enable the state to seek out potential funding to help communities rebuild.” 

Chantal smashed into central North Carolina on July 6, with some locations experiencing as much as 9 to 12 inches of rain. The Haw River, the Eno River and Jordan Lake, among others, saw record or near-record water levels, state officials said.

The state of emergency covers 13 counties across the region, including Chatham, Durham, Lee, Moore, Orange, Person and Wake counties.