Contact: Julia jarema

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HURRICANE WATCH ISSUED FOR EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA, EARL EXPECTED TO BRUSH COAST LATE THURSDAY

RALEIGH –  The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane watch for much of Eastern North Carolina including: Beaufort, Carteret, Craven, Dare, Hyde, Onslow, Pamlico, Tyrrell and Washington counties.

Based on the current track, the National Weather Service reports winds of 60 miles per hour to near hurricane force gusts (74 mph) are possible along the Outer Banks and sounds Thursday night and into early Friday. Winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour may be felt along Highway 17, while 20 to 25 mile per hour gusts may be felt as far inland as Interstate 95. Overwash is likely on the Outer Banks with a possible three to four feet of storm surge and breakers up to 15 feet.

While local officials have not yet issued evacuation orders, this is a critical time for residents who live in storm-surge evacuation zones.   Individuals and families must be prepared to leave their homes immediately if an evacuation is ordered.

 The hurricane watch indicates that North Carolina is vulnerable to Earl and local officials will take swift action to safeguard residents.  Residents who have not yet prepared for evacuation, secured their homes and purchased supplies for their families, should act now.

Determine if you are in a storm surge evacuation zone.  During a Hurricane Watch, residents who live in storm surge areas could be told to evacuate.  Residents who live in mobile homes along the storm's projected path may also be advised to evacuate.  Evacuation zones will be identified by local emergency managers and announced through the local news media.  Any residents told to evacuate should do so immediately.  Residents who choose to evacuate of their own accord should do so now, during the watch period, as evacuation to inland areas takes time.

Residents who live inland or outside the storm-surge zone should still prepare their homes.  Purchase building supplies now to protect the home.  Begin installing storm shutters, if available.  Unplug small appliances in case of a power surge.  Families should assemble an emergency kit with enough supplies to last them for three to seven days.  The kit should include: bottled water (one gallon per person daily), nonperishable foods, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a blanket or sleeping bag for each person, extra clothes appropriate for the season, prescription medicines, cash and essential items for babies, elderly or disabled.

High waves, heavy surf and dangerous rip currents will be likely along North Carolina's coast in the coming days.  As wind speeds intensify, there is also danger of blowing debris and downed power lines. Residents are advised not to go swimming, boating, surfing or fishing near the coast as the storm moves closer.