‘This is an usually dangerous storm’: Gov. Cooper warns NC residents to prepare for the worst ahead of Helene

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — North Carolina is bracing for the effects of Hurricane Helene through this weekend.

Gov. Roy Cooper gave a stern warning Thursday, encouraging North Carolinians to prepare for the worst.

“This is an unusually dangerous storm,” Cooper said. “You can expect heavy rain and potentially catastrophic flooding. Travel will be dangerous and flooding is likely. We are preparing for unexpected conditions.”

Cooper has activated 175 soldiers and airmen with the North Carolina National Guard. State officials also say water rescue teams, urban search and rescue teams, and the Department of Transportation are ready.

State officials expect the primary impacts to be in the mountains and foothills. But they say central and eastern North Carolina can expect heavy rain and more.

“As the governor said, North Carolina has begun to experience the impacts of Helene, which will continue into Saturday,” NC Emergency Management Director William Ray said. “You should see heavy rainfall, life-threatening flash flooding, and damaging landslides.”

Governor Cooper said, “If you’re in an area that could likely be flooded, make a plan now to stay with friends or family.”

State officials strongly recommend staying off the roadways if you do not need to travel. They also say never drive through flooded roadways or barricades and check weather alerts for your area, emphasizing the importance of safety.

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