‘Get prepared now’: Gov. Stein declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Erin approaches NC coast

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Governor Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency as North Carolina braces for Hurricane Erin, which is expected to bring dangerous weather conditions to the coast this week.

In a statement released Tuesday, Gov. Stein urged residents to take this storm seriously.

“Hurricane Erin will bring threats of coastal flooding, beach erosion, and dangerous surf conditions,” he said. “North Carolinians along the coast should get prepared now.”

Mandatory evacuations are already in effect for Ocracoke and Hatteras islands, and local emergencies have been declared in Dare and Hyde counties. Those needing shelter can go to the State Operated Disaster Shelter at 113 Wilcox Street in Warrenton. The shelter allows pets and is managed by Warren County Emergency Management, authorities announced.

Hurricane Erin is expected to grow stronger over the next two days as it turns north. Waves as high as 15 to 20 feet, flooding, and life-threatening rip currents are expected to hit the coast starting on Wednesday, with the Outer Banks likely to experience tropical storm-force winds through Thursday.

How to prepare for Hurricane Erin

• Prepare a Disaster Kit: Include essentials like prescriptions, phone chargers, cash, important documents, and insurance papers
• Know Your Zone: Check evacuation routes at KnowYourZone.NC.gov
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never drive through floodwaters.

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