Today, North Carolina officials held a briefing to discuss the onset of hurricane season and the importance of preparedness. Governor Josh Stein, alongside Director of Emergency Management Will Ray, Attorney General Jeff Jackson, First Sergeant Chris Knox of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, and Colonel Patrick Henderson of the North Carolina Army National Guard, emphasized the need for residents to have emergency plans in place.
Governor Stein stressed the significance of staying informed about emergency management warnings and resources. “As our state braces for hurricane season, I encourage North Carolinians be aware of emergency management warnings and resources so that they have a plan to stay safe in case of an emergency,” he stated. He also highlighted ongoing preparations despite uncertainties at the federal level: “Emergency Management continues to prepare amidst uncertainty on the federal level – we must stay the course and do everything in our power to keep North Carolinians safe no matter what happens in Washington, DC.”
Director Will Ray outlined practical steps for protection during hurricane season. “Hurricane season has begun and there are steps to be taken to protect yourself, your family, and your property if a hurricane or tropical weather does strike,” he advised. He recommended assembling an emergency kit and ensuring multiple ways to receive emergency announcements.
The State Emergency Response Team is actively preparing by reviewing past experiences and exercising key processes. The team aims to support local responders but stresses individual household preparedness as crucial for resilience.
Governor Stein recently published an op-ed suggesting reforms for FEMA in USA Today. His recommendations include rebuilding homes permanently, simplifying aid applications, and moving away from reimbursement programs. He warned against abolishing FEMA amid another hurricane season.
Residents are encouraged to assemble emergency kits with essentials like food, water, radios, medications, and personal documents. They should also consider unique needs within their households and establish communication plans in case evacuation becomes necessary.
Community involvement is also promoted through learning local emergency plans, participating in drills, volunteering with Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), or engaging with NC Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster.
