North Carolina Governor Updates Public on #Florence:

[BELOW IS A SUMMARY OF HIS PRESS CONF ON 9/14]

The storm is far from over, we’re days away from it ending.

Sadly, there have been 3 deaths from the storm and a number of others being investigated.

If you’re in the storm’s path, take shelter.

The Governor urges evacuated people not to try to return home yet: it’s dangerous, makes it harder for first responders, and also impedes efforts to repair utilities.

Many roads are flooded and impassible and will get worse.

More rivers will rise and flood communities over the next few days. Cape Fear and Lumber Rivers will rise as higher or higher than in Hurricane Matthew, this will cause devastating floods. order issued to allow sandbagging in the Lumberton area.

There will be more flooding in Eastern NC and areas from Fayetteville through the sand hills to Charlotte.

Stay alert for flood warnings. If you’re asked to evacuate, go quickly.

Rains will start this weekend in Western NC too. Landslides are possible.

Current focus is saving lives and protecting people. Swift water rescue teams and other first responders have rescued 100s of people in New Bern and are searching flooded areas.

Currently 600k without power in NC. Projects 1 – 2.5 million will lose power.

Once conditions improve, crews will get to hard hit areas with supplies (food, water, other critical items), clear roads and assist with cleanup and recovery.

For people who stayed in their homes, don’t use generators indoors, don’t drive through water, stay indoors, be alert to listen to the radio for warnings about wind, tornados, rising water, orders to shut off gas, water and power.

If you have an emergency call 911.

Shelter information is available at the ReadyNC app downloadable from the NC.gov website or dialling 2-1-1. The hearing impaired should dial: 888-892-1162.

NC has more than 150 shelters.

*University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has agreed to operate a mass shelter on its campus.*

Acknowledges that some will need long term housing once the storm passes. Efforts are underway.

NC Disaster Relief Fund has been activated for donations: governor.nc.gov.