Hurricane Florence was a storm that just wouldn’t let up. After the initial storm surge and winds, came massive flooding with rains that seemed never ending. There were over 1.7 million Duke Energy customers alone without power in the Carolinas as a result of Florence. Unfortunately, 37 lives were lost due to the storm – all in North Carolina. Countless lives were interrupted and immense loss of personal property is expected.
Operations are now in recovery mode with state and federal agencies mobilized in the affected areas. Disaster assistance and temporary housing are being provided. As of September 27th, 1,500 people remained in emergency shelters in North Carolina – down from a high of 22,000. Damaged and flooded roadways are still a hazard with North Carolina DOT estimated $100 million in repairs needed.
A generator can be a powerful tool during and after a storm – keeping essential equipment such as medical devices, refrigerators and sump pumps running. Never run a portable gas powered generator indoors and make sure you have a working Carbon monoxide detector.
The statewide NC 211 information line can provide callers with housing, recovery and other storm-related details 24/7. Dial 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162, or text FLORENCE to 898211 or nc211.org. Other resources can be obtained by visiting ncdps.gov/florence or following NC Emergency Management on Facebook and Twitter.