RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Roy Cooper provided an update Sunday afternoon on emergency preparations ahead of Isaias.
Cooper declared a state of emergency Friday and released guidelines for evacuations and sheltering information for COVID-19.
“We have received a federal emergency declaration for 25 counties so far,” Cooper said in Sunday’s press conference. “We are coordinating with utility companies which expect widespread outages.”
Cooper activated up to 150 NC National Guard soldiers to help with storm preparations and response as needed.
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“We’ve been so grateful for their work overseas,” Cooper said. “We appreciate our first responders.”
Cooper said North Carolinians should pack a mask, hand sanitizer and continue to social distance unlike during normal hurricane preparation in the past.
Emergency leaders are asking North Carolinians in the storm’s path to make sure they are prepared.
“Now is the time to finish your personal preparations with a plan and an emergency kit,” Cooper said. “Be prepared for power outages, and the possibility of flooding.”
Cooper and emergency leaders emphasized the need to social distance and following the three W’s which include waiting six feet away from others, washing your hands frequently and wearing a face mask.
“Our state has weathered, our fair share of storms, this time we have to do it with a mask on,” Cooper said.
Cooper said sustained tropical storm force winds have been confirmed for much of the state.
“Just because Isaias is now categorized as a tropical storm doesn’t change its potential threat,” Cooper said. “State emergency managers here along with our local partners are preparing for the heavy winds and rain that this storm may bring.”
Leaders said much of the strong winds would be enough to bring down trees and power lines.
Cooper said tropical storm force winds are expected to begin after dark Monday and into Tuesday morning.
“Be on alert for flash flooding and river flooding,” Cooper said. “Don’t drive through flooded roadways, pack masks and hand sanitizer in your kit and remember to social distance.”
Directory Mike Sprayberry said about 120 NC National Guard members are staging at armories in the east.
Cooper said the coronavirus pandemic remains a threat and preparations may take longer and look different.
“We’re watching the forecast for Isaias carefully and know the storm will impact much of our piedmont and coastal plain,” he said. “We can stay safe from the storm and the virus if we are ready.”