Yesterday, Governor Josh Stein was joined by 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 for a briefing to mark the start of hurricane season. The officials provided updates and shared critical guidance to help North Carolinians prepare for the months ahead.
Governor Stein emphasized the importance of having a plan in place and urged residents to stay informed and proactive.
“As our state braces for hurricane season, I encourage North Carolinians to be aware of emergency management warnings and resources so that they have a plan to stay safe in case of an emergency,” said Governor Stein. “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 of Emergency Management Will Ray echoed these sentiments and outlined simple yet essential steps individuals and families can take now.
“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,” Ray said. “Remember to put together an emergency kit, have multiple avenues from which you can receive emergency announcements, and take the steps needed to protect your home.”
The State Emergency Response Team has already begun preparing for the 2025 hurricane season by reviewing policies, learning from previous storms, and conducting exercises to ensure key processes are in place. The goal is to ensure state support is available to local emergency management teams and first responders should severe weather impact North Carolina.
Officials stressed that while the state is actively preparing, it’s crucial for residents to take individual action as well. Prepared households not only reduce risk but also strengthen community resilience.
Last month, Governor Stein published an op-ed in USA Today outlining proposed reforms to FEMA, emphasizing long-term solutions such as permanent rebuilding, a common aid application, and replacing reimbursement-based models. The Governor cautioned that eliminating FEMA would only worsen the situation as hurricane season begins.
To prepare for potential weather emergencies, residents are encouraged to:
- Assemble an emergency kit with enough food, water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days), a battery-powered or NOAA weather radio, medications, and other essentials.
- Plan for special needs including infants, elderly family members, people with disabilities, and pets.
- Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts (mobile apps, weather radios, TV).
- Develop a family communication and evacuation plan. Keep printed copies of contact info and important documents.
- Inventory personal belongings to assist with insurance claims.
- Learn how to shut off utilities safely and avoid turning gas back on without professional help.
North Carolinians are also encouraged to get involved with local preparedness efforts:
- Understand emergency plans at schools, workplaces, and within neighborhoods.
- Participate in community drills and training exercises.
- Volunteer with a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) or reach out to NC Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster for additional ways to support community readiness.
Officials will continue to provide updates throughout the season as necessary. Residents are urged to stay alert, stay informed, and take preparedness seriously.
