Governor Josh Stein and state officials urged North Carolinians on Mar. 15 to prepare for severe weather after the National Weather Service issued a rare Level 4 Moderate Risk alert. The storm system is expected to bring damaging wind gusts of at least 74 mph, large hail, and tornadoes across the state.
The warning affects all residents, with central North Carolina facing the highest threat level. Officials say it is important for families to have emergency plans in place and stay informed through alerts and local news. “Unusually severe weather is moving into North Carolina, bringing a risk of damaging wind gusts, thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Please make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your phone and make a plan for how to keep yourself and your family safe.”
The State Emergency Response Team has been activated in anticipation of the storm’s impact. The State Emergency Operations Center is monitoring forecasts closely, while North Carolina Emergency Management stands ready to deploy resources such as Urban Search and Rescue Teams, hazardous materials response teams, firefighting units, elements of the NC Forest Service, and medical response assets from the Office of EMS if needed.
NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray said that this level of threat is unusual for the state: “While North Carolina is no stranger to severe weather, the introduction of a Level 4 out of 5 moderate threat is very rare in our state. It is imperative that all North Carolinians have a plan to protect themselves and their families and stay informed to take action when necessary.”
The Office of the Governor serves all residents statewide according to its official website. As chief executive, the governor executes state laws and leads the Council of State according to its official website. Josh Stein currently serves as the state’s 76th governor according to its official website. The office also directs policy by managing budgets and granting pardons according to its official website, acts as commander in chief of the North Carolina National Guard, and appoints executive officials according to its official website.
Residents seeking more information about preparing for severe weather can visit ReadyNC.Gov.