Eastern North Carolina — Counties and cities across eastern North Carolina are preparing for Tropical Storm Debby.
Officials have been releasing information for residents as the storm begins to move through Florida.
The storm is expected to weaken before it reaches eastern North Carolina in some forecasted paths.
On Monday North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency,“This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it,” said Governor Cooper. “As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe.”
On Tuesday, Attorney General Josh Stein announced the price gouging law is in effect following Gov. Cooper's State of Emergency declaration.
This list will be updated as more information is made available.
Albert J. Ellis Airport
Airport officials are encouraging all passengers to continue to check their flight status with their airline carrier prior to traveling to the airport due to the approaching storm.
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport-EWN
At this time, officials say the airport remains open and operational. However, they will continue to monitor Debby as she approaches ENC. Travelers are encouraged to download the airline's app to receive flight notifications.
North Carolina Department of Transportation Ferry Division
At this point, the Ferry Division is in preparation mode: testing emergency generators and emergency ramps at all of our terminals, making sure we have adequate supplies on hand, and taking fuel deliveries so that we are able to operate after the storm has passed.
For ferry riders, be sure and tell them to sign up for text and/or email notifications from the Ferry Information Notification System. Users can choose which routes they want to hear from, and get schedule updates directly from the terminal. They will then receive notifications if we have to suspend or delay a route for any reason.
Blue Cross NC
In advance of Hurricane Debby affecting North Carolina, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) is allowing early prescription refills to ensure that customers have access to the prescription drugs they need.
Early prescription refills for Blue Cross NC customers must be made while the state of emergency declaration is in effect. Customers with questions about their prescription drug coverage may contact the customer service number on their Blue Cross NC card. Members with questions about their coverage may log in to their self-service portal at blueconnectnc.com to send a secure message. The early prescription refill policy does not apply to controlled substances. Blue Cross NC will continue to update customers through the company’s social media channels.
Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative
Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative (CCEC) is closely monitoring the path of Debbie and is ready to respond to any outages that may occur as soon as conditions are safe.
While the intensity and track of Debbie remain uncertain for CCEC’s service area, forecasts show the potential for gusty winds, record rainfall, and isolated tornadoes later this week as the system approaches eastern North Carolina. The combination of these weather conditions can result in flash floods and downed trees and limbs, bringing both safety concerns and potential outages to our service area.
“The cooperative’s top priority is serving members, and we will do everything we can to minimize disruption to service while keeping members informed and safe,” said Melissa Glenn, communications director for CCEC. “We urge everyone to prepare now by making a plan, assembling an emergency kit, and following the instructions of local officials.”
Some simple things you can do now are:
Make a plan. Outline a communications and evacuation plan for your family. If you have any pets or livestock, include them in your plan.
Assemble an emergency kit. It should include a three-day supply of non-perishable food, water, and medication, as well as any other items you might need in case of a power outage, such as a flashlight, radio, and batteries.
Charge your cell phone. This will allow you to stay connected to emergency and safety updates even if the power goes out.
Secure outdoor items. Safely store lawn furniture, decorations, toys, garbage cans, and other items that can be brought indoors. Tie down larger objects like boats and trailers.
Fuel up. Fill vehicles before the storm as a loss of power could put gas pumps and EV chargers out of commission.
Members requiring electricity to operate specialized medical equipment need to ensure they have a plan in place in the event of a power outage.
While you are preparing at home, line crews are also using this time to stock their trucks with materials needed for repairs and are testing equipment to make sure it is ready for use. Given the nature of this storm, members should be prepared for the possibility of outages.
Outages and restoration times can be tracked at http://outage.carteretcraven.coop.
Members are encouraged to follow the co-op on Facebook (@CarteretCraven) for updates.
CCEC members should sign up to receive outage text alerts. Text CCEMC to 1.800.682.2217 to make sure that your contact information is up to date. Members can also text “OUT” to notify CCEC if you are experiencing an outage. Please note: Texting may be disabled during widespread or long-duration outages.
Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative supplies power to 44,500 meters serving more than 38,000 members in Carteret, Craven, Jones and Onslow counties and is part of Touchstone Energy, a nationwide family of co-ops exhibiting the core values of integrity, accountability, innovation, and commitment to community.
ECU
Campus administrators continue to monitor forecasts for Tropical Storm Debby.
The storm is expected to move across or just offshore of the southeastern United States this week. Forecasts predict periods of heavy rain in eastern North Carolina beginning Tuesday and lasting late into the week. Potential impacts include heavy rain, flooding and thunderstorms.
At this time, classes and operations are expected to remain on regular schedule. Forecasts can change rapidly and significantly so continue to monitor ECU emergency communications. Any updates to campus operations will be announced through ECU Alert.
Anyone traveling should pay close attention to the weather. All employees and students should use their own judgment based on their specific situation. Be careful of hydroplaning while traveling on wet roads. Do not drive through moving or standing water or around barriers.
Atlantic Beach
As Tropical Storm Debby approaches our area, the Town of Atlantic Beach recommends that you stay updated with the latest information and be prepared ahead of time.
According to the National Weather Service, Atlantic Beach is anticipated to experience unfavorable weather conditions starting Tuesday afternoon and lasting into late week. The latest forecast updates indicate an increased chance of substantial rainfall, possible flash flooding, and dangerous rip currents.
Please follow the National Weather Service—Newport/Morehead City office through the link here for important storm-related updates.
If you have not done so already, please shut the water off to any outdoor water fixture, especially on docks, to assist in leak prevention.
Please take a moment to review our website's tips on preparation before, during, and after a hurricane.
Greenville
City of Greenville Public Works crews have been out today performing storm drain and catch basin cleaning ahead of tropical storm Debby. Greenville is expected to receive 6 to 8 inches of rain from the storm over the next few days; ensuring the city's stormwater system is unobstructed and functioning correctly goes to great lengths to prevent localized flooding.
If you are able, please consider checking the storm drains in your area to help our crews out. If you are not able, but have concerns about a specific area, please call our Public Works Department at 252-329-4522.
New Bern
City officials are strongly encouraging everyone to take precautions with significant rainfall and the possibility of flooding expected over the next several days. Eastern North Carolina is forecast to begin feeling the effects of Tropical Storm Debby tomorrow (Tuesday). The storm is expected to bring gusty winds, heavy rain bands and flash flooding as it moves up the coast. Depending on the storm’s trajectory, we could see rain totals of up to 10 inches.
Residents, visitors and businesses should prepare now for storm impacts:
- Secure outdoor items or bring them inside. This includes retrieving trash and recycling cans as soon as possible after they are serviced.
- Fuel up vehicles and equipment.
- Restock your survival kit in the event of power outages.
- Clear your gutters and other drainage outlets surrounding your property to help mitigate flooding risk.
The City is bringing in two loads of sand for residents who wish to fill sandbags. The sand will be available on a first-come, first serve basis until it is depleted. Residents must bring their own bags and shovels. The sand deliveries will be available at Henderson Park (901 Chapman Street) and Seth West Parrott Park behind Kidsville (1225 Pine Tree Drive) on Tuesday morning. With sand in short supply, we do not have a specific delivery time but will post this information to social media, our website and through New Bern Alerts.
With periods of high intensity and high-volume rainfall expected, we anticipate stormwater drainageways may become overwhelmed along city streets and in low-lying areas that commonly flood during rainfall events. Some of these areas include but are not limited to: Cypress Street (at George Street), Cedar Street (at Pavie Avenue), Murray Street, Pollock Street (at Princess Street), Change Street, Linden Street, portions of Hazel & Washington streets, Dartmouth Lane, Princeton Lane, and the traffic circle at Broad and E. Front streets.
Our stormwater crews are clearing drainage outlets along major corridors and will continue throughout the duration of the storm. Our stormwater lift stations are prepped and ready to respond. The pumps at these lift stations activate automatically as water levels rise. As a reminder, floodwaters can be dangerous, even deadly. They can sweep away cars and people in an instant – turn around, don’t drown. If possible, stay off the roads altogether as conditions deteriorate.
Additional staff and emergency responders are working through the week to respond to power outages, utility damages, debris, flooding and water/sewer issues. Customers can call Utility Control at (252)636-4070 to report these issues 24 hours a day. City of New Bern customers who have a cell phone number associated with their utility account will automatically receive a text message in the event of a power outage. If you have not yet opted in to this service, call (252)639-2750 to register a cell phone number to your account. You can also report a power, water, sewer, stormwater, or other problem using our Report a Problem portal on our website by clicking here. Remember, in an emergency, always dial 9-1-1.
The City’s Emergency Operations Center on Highway 55 has been prepared and stands ready for mobilization should the need arise. In the meantime, City staff are monitoring the latest forecasts on the storm and its effects on eastern North Carolina, as well as getting supplies ready and going over preparedness checklists. Click the links at right to print/download resiliency checklists for residents and businesses.
The City will post additional storm updates and information, as necessary, to its social media platforms and website. Follow us on Facebook at CityofNB and Instagram at CityOfNewBern or visit our website at www.NewBernNC.gov. We will also deploy emergency and general notifications, as necessary, through New Bern Alerts. This mass notification system is free to subscribers and sends info via text, email and voicemail. It is never too late to sign up for New Bern Alerts. You can download the myAlerts app to your smartphone or visit our website at www.NewBernNC.gov/NewBernAlerts to sign up. There are 14 different categories of information, as well as weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
Our National Night Out event scheduled for tomorrow evening at Union Point Park has been postponed due to the storm. It has been rescheduled for October 1 from 5-8pm at the same location. Other announcements regarding cancellations of events or city services (such as trash, recycling, leaf & limb, and bulk waste pickup) will be posted on our social media platforms, website, and through New Bern Alerts.
Take steps now to prepare for Tropical Storm Debby to help protect you, your family and your property. Preparation is key to recovery in the aftermath of the storm.
Pine Knoll Shores
Town Staff have been monitoring the track and forecast for what was Hurricane Debby and is now a Tropical Storm. Please note that the future track is uncertain and should conditions change we will alert you as soon as possible.
CANCELLATIONS
We are canceling any Town committee/board meetings for this week as the track of Debby is still uncertain once it crosses Florida.
STORMWATER
The current forecast for our area of Eastern North Carolina is 10-15” of rain through the end of the week. This means we will likely have localized flooding. With the stormwater mitigation projects the Town has completed since Hurricane Florence, we are far better equipped to handle normal amounts of stormwater. That being said, expectations must be realistic. The volume of rainfall from such events as a Tropical Storm combined with our barrier island location with several low-lying areas makes for a challenging combination.
Utilizing our stormwater mitigation systems, we have been making room in the water table since Friday. We also have mobile pumps we can use in other areas of Town and our emergency pumping contractor is providing us with two more. Town Staff will be monitoring all areas of town throughout the storm event and these pumps will be placed where they are most needed.
NO RE-ENTRY PASS NEEDED
Based on the track of TS Debby, I am not anticipating a need for the use of Hurricane Re-Entry passes. Please do not contact Town Hall regarding re-entry passes for TS Debby!
DOCKS & OUTDOOR WATER FIXTURES
If you have not done so already, please shut the water off to any outdoor water fixture including, and especially, on docks! Our Public Services Department will be very busy with other storm-related activities such that their attention should not be diverted to otherwise preventable leaks.
HIGH RIP CURRENT RISK
Chief Baker will be posting double red flags on the beach beginning tomorrow and they will remain until further notice. Double red flags mean the ocean is closed for swimming.
Beaufort County
Recent weather updates include minor track and timeline adjustments to Debby’s path along the eastern US, as well as an increase in forecasted rainfall and expected winds for our area. Forecast models continue to vary on the track Debby will take after re-entering the Atlantic. However, these variations continue to have little impact to the forecasted conditions for our area as of now. Below is a summary of what we know and are still watching.
Regardless of the disparities between these models, the impacts from Debby will be felt well beyond its centerline track. Debby is still forecasted to bring several days of impacts to our area as summarized below.
Rain
6 to 8 inches of rain is currently forecasted for Beaufort County over the next 10 days, most of which will occur between Wednesday and Saturday. However, these rainfall totals will be track-specific, and subject to change over the coming days. (Remember, these totals are based on a slow northeast offshore track along the Georgia and South Carolina coast between Tuesday and Thursday.)
Carteret County
Carteret County Emergency Management (CCEM) officials are advising residents to prepare for potential impacts from Tropical Storm Debby, which is moving slowly across northern Florida and into southern Georgia today and tonight. The storm is expected to move very slowly across or just offshore the Southeast United States through the rest of the week.
While the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast track remains uncertain beyond Tuesday, CCEM is in close communication with state and local partners to monitor the storm's development. The primary threat to Carteret County is expected to be flash flooding due to several days of heavy rainfall. Current forecasts predict 5 to 10 inches of rain across the county, with localized areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches over the next seven days.
Additionally, dangerous rip currents and hazardous marine conditions are expected to develop and persist throughout the late week. "We encourage residents to take this opportunity to prepare their homes and families for potential flooding," said Stephen Rea, Director of CCEM. "This includes having a plan, assembling an emergency kit, and staying informed about the latest weather updates."
CCEM officials emphasize the following safety precautions during flooding:
- Never drive or walk through floodwaters. Even shallow water can mask strong currents and conceal hidden dangers.
- Find alternate routes. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and take another route. Don't follow vehicles that may have successfully navigated the water.
- Don't rely on your vehicle for safety. High water can quickly stall cars and trucks. Even SUVs and four-wheel drive vehicles are susceptible to being swept away.
- Abandon a stalled vehicle immediately. If your car becomes stuck in floodwaters, climb to higher ground and leave the vehicle behind.
- Keep children away from flooded areas. Standing water can be deceptively dangerous, and even strong swimmers can be swept away by fast-moving currents.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local news for updates and heed all warnings from the National Weather Service and local officials. In addition, residents should sign up for CodeRed, Carteret County's free emergency alert system, to receive location-specific notifications: https://bit.ly/CarteretCodeRED.
Craven County
Craven County Government is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Debby as it approaches eastern North Carolina. Craven County Emergency Management is following established Emergency Operations Plans and Procedures and they are working closely with local partners to understand potential impacts of this storm. There is a potential for a long duration of storm impacts to include multiple days of heavy rain.
Citizens are encouraged to closely monitor conditions and prepare for the potential of tropical storm force winds that could result in scattered tree damage, power outages, and flooding rain that can produce localized and flash flooding. As with any storm, high winds, heavy rain, and flooding have the potential to cause life-threatening conditions and widespread damage. Those living in low-lying areas prone to significant flooding based upon past tropical events or hurricanes are encouraged to begin preparing for flooding and relocating vehicles to higher ground. Mariners and boat owners are encouraged to ensure vessels are secured. Residents and business owners should take time to mitigate potential damage to their home or business before the storm by trimming trees, covering windows, and securing loose outdoor items.
“Craven County has seasoned professionals standing ready to respond to the impacts of Tropical Storm Debby. As conditions change, we will issue additional updates as needed,” stated Jack B. Veit, III, Craven County Manager.
Craven County residents should have a plan and be prepared for this storm and the remainder of hurricane season. Citizens are encouraged to check their Emergency Supply Kits for needed supplies necessary during tropical storms and hurricanes. An emergency supply kit should include enough non-perishable food and water to last each family member three to seven days. One gallon of water per day per person is recommended. Other essential items to include are a first-aid kit, a manual can opener, a battery-powered or hand crank weather radio and extra batteries, prescription medicines, sleeping bag or blankets for each person, flashlight and extra batteries, changes of clothes, hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and deodorant, cash, pet supplies including food, water, bedding, leashes, muzzle, and vaccination records. Other supplies to consider including in kits are hand sanitizer, books, games or cards. Do not forgot to prepare for any special or unique needs family members may have such as baby supplies, medical devices, and medical supplies. Citizens using home oxygen are encouraged to have an alternative oxygen supply in the event of prolonged power outages.
Residents are encouraged to know a safe place to shelter and to have several ways to receive weather alerts such as National Weather Service cell phone alerts, NOAA Weather Radio, or follow the National Weather Service social media accounts. Individuals planning to travel should use extreme caution and good judgment when planning travel routes and should never drive through standing or rushing water. Remember, “Turn Around Don’t Drown.”
All residents and visitors in North Carolina are also encouraged to Know Your Zone should evacuation become necessary. Craven County is one of 21 coastal counties in North Carolina with predetermined evacuation zones to simplify the coastal evacuation process in the event of an emergency. To find your zone, visit the Know Your Zone website at https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management/emergency-preparedness/know-your-zone.
All citizens, law enforcement, and emergency response personnel are encouraged to cooperate with all safety measures if implemented and abide by any restrictions that may become necessary to overcome any potential emergency.
Craven County Government Emergency Management updates will appear on the Craven County website at www.cravencountync.gov, on the Craven County Facebook page @cravencounty and the Craven County X (formerly Twitter) account @cravencountync. Visit the Craven County website at www.cravencountync.gov to register to receive emergency notifications via text, email, and phone calls through the CodeRed Emergency Notification System.
Lenoir County
Lenoir County Emergency Services is currently monitoring the track and progress of Tropical Storm Debby. Our team is in the process of reviewing county emergency operations plans and making initial preparations in advance of the potential arrival of tropical weather later this week.
North Carolina Emergency Management opened the state emergency operations center this morning to begin planning coordination and resource assessments. Eastern N.C. county emergency managers participated in a conference call with the NCEM Eastern Branch Office at noon today to discuss initial preparation efforts within the region.
There are many uncertainties about the eventual track and effects of this storm. The latest National Weather Service forecasts and models indicate that Lenoir County will experience a prolonged rain event with showers starting tomorrow and lasting into the weekend.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware over the next several days and seek up-to-date information from reliable sources such as the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center. Lenoir County will also share important information and updates on all of our social media platforms.
Helpful websites:
NC Emergency Management Preparedness Website
https://www.readync.gov/
Hyper-Reach Emergency Notification System
http://hyper-reach.com/nclenoirsignup.html
National Weather Service – Morehead City Forecast Office
https://www.weather.gov/mhx/
National Hurricane Center
https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
NDCOT NC 12
Crews with the NC Department of Transportation are continuing to monitor Tropical Storm Debby. Crews are staging equipment from Oregon Inlet to Ocraco*ke in the usual areas that are hit hard. In addition, crews are doing checks on storm water structures, ditches and ensuring all equipment is in working order. They state while heavy rain is the main threat with Debby, ocean over wash is possible. For those planning to travel they are encouraged to check DriveNC.gov.
Piedmont Natural Gas
Piedmont Natural Gas is advising customers to follow a few simple steps to stay safe if their natural gas equipment or appliances are damaged or flooded due to severe weather as Tropical Storm Debby approaches.
“Keeping our communities safe is at the heart of what we do, and we want to make sure our customers know how to stay safe before, during and after this storm passes,” said Adam Long, Piedmont Natural Gas chief operations officer. “Following any severe weather event, Piedmont will support its customers and deliver reliable, safe natural gas service.”
For areas that flood, crews with Piedmont will be responding to those neighborhoods to inspect natural gas meters for any signs of submersion. For meters believed to have been submerged will be removed and service for natural gas will be turned off. Customers will be notified to have their natural gas appliances inspected for safe operation by Piedmont Natural Gas or another licensed contractor before service can be restored, per officials.
For more information, regarding Piedmont Natural Gas click here.
