Tropical Storm Debby is causing significant rainfall and flooding across North Carolina as of Thursday. The storm has already resulted in its first fatality, linked to a tornado that struck Lucama late Wednesday night. In response to the ongoing situation, Governor Roy Cooper visited the North Carolina Emergency Management Regional Coordination Center East and the North Carolina National Guard Armory in Kinston on Thursday morning, accompanied by North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray and FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Rod McAllister.
Governor Cooper expressed gratitude for the efforts of first responders and urged residents to take precautions against the storm while heeding advice from state and local emergency management officials. During their visit, the Governor and Director Ray received updates from members of the State Emergency Response Team regarding the current challenges and response strategies being implemented by state and regional authorities.
The North Carolina Emergency Management Regional Coordination Centers are actively supporting local response teams in addressing the effects of Tropical Storm Debby. At the National Guard Armory, they met with soldiers and airmen who are on duty to assist with the emergency response, including swift water rescue teams ready to assist areas in eastern North Carolina in need of help.
On Wednesday night, a tornado in Lucama caused damage to several homes, including a middle school, resulting in one reported fatality. The threat of tornadoes, flash flooding, severe thunderstorms, and heavy rain continues across the state. Currently, 13 local shelters are open in Cumberland, Columbus, Bladen, and Pender Counties, with 28 counties having declared States of Emergency. Voluntary evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Brunswick and Moore Counties, where a shelter is expected to open by this afternoon for residents affected by the evacuation.
Residents are advised to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. For those who must travel, updates on road conditions can be accessed at DriveNC.gov, provided by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, which reports approximately 100 road closures statewide due to flooding, fallen trees, and power lines. Over 2,200 personnel from the Department of Transportation are actively working to clear the roads and ensure safety.
North Carolinians are reminded to rely on trusted sources such as the National Weather Service, local news, and emergency management authorities for the latest information. Details concerning shelter options and power outages can be found on county websites, ReadyNC.gov, or by calling 211 for emergency assistance.