travel Will Be Dangerous: NC Gov. Cooper Urges Caution Ahead of Hurricane Helene

By TNW News Breaking Staff and TNWWeather.com Team
Published: 1:00 PM EDT September 25, 2024
Updated: 12:01 PM EDT September 26, 2024

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency as the state prepares for the imminent impacts of Hurricane Helene, now a Category 2 storm. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings for torrential rain, damaging winds, and severe flooding expected across the Carolinas, with western North Carolina set to face the worst of the storm.

“This is an unusually dangerous storm that threatens to bring heavy rain and potentially catastrophic flooding to central and particularly western North Carolina,” Governor Cooper said during a press briefing on Thursday. “When tropical weather crosses into our mountains, it can be deadly.”

Currently, Hurricane Helene has sustained winds of 105 mph, with gusts reaching up to 115 mph. Forecasters anticipate the storm will intensify as it moves inland, bringing as much as a foot of rain to some parts of western North Carolina by Friday. The risk of flash flooding, landslides, and tornadoes remains high as the storm progresses.

Governor Cooper reiterated the seriousness of the situation, stating, "Heavy rains and winds are coming: Beware and prepare. Travel will be dangerous. Flooding is likely, and we are preparing for unexpected conditions."

To aid in emergency efforts, 175 soldiers and airmen from the North Carolina National Guard have been activated. Additionally, swift water rescue and urban search and rescue teams are being deployed to western North Carolina, where the threat of severe flooding is most pronounced.

Emergency Response Across the Carolinas

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has also declared a state of emergency, recognizing the potential for significant impacts in both states. While cities such as Charlotte and Asheville are not directly in the storm’s path, officials warn they could still experience dangerous flash flooding due to Helene’s far-reaching effects.

The North Carolina State Emergency Response Team has mobilized personnel and equipment to communities most at risk. The National Guard is prepared to assist with power outages, as well as the delivery of critical resources such as food, medicine, and fuel.

As a safety precaution, Charlotte Motor Speedway has opened its campgrounds to evacuees at no charge. Located off Interstate 85 in Concord, the campgrounds will remain available for as long as necessary to provide safe shelter for those fleeing the storm.

Helene's Path and Expected Impacts

Hurricane Helene is currently moving through the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane before making landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region. Forecasters warn of rapid intensification, bringing with it the threat of catastrophic wind damage, storm surge, and flooding along Florida's Gulf Coast. The storm is expected to move northward into the Carolinas, where its effects will be felt through the weekend.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for several North Carolina counties, including Mecklenburg, Union, and Gaston. Residents in Charlotte, Gastonia, and Hickory should brace for tropical storm conditions, while Flood Watchesare active for western counties where flash flooding is likely to occur.

TNWWeather.com continues to monitor the storm closely. Stay updated on Hurricane Helene's progress by visiting TNWWeather.com or following @TNWWeather on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for real-time updates and alerts.

As Helene approaches, remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your loved ones.

Related Stories:

• Helene strengthens to hurricane status as it churns into Gulf of Mexico
• What is rapid intensification? Here's how it works
• Massive flooding already reported in Boone as Helene approaches

For the latest updates, follow @TNWWeather on social media.