Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2006-08-30, Gov. Easley Activates State Emergency Team As Ernesto Approaches; Calls 150 National Guard To Duty; Warns Of Flooding And Urges Citizens To Prepare

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Sondra Artis Date: August 30, 2006 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY ACTIVATES STATE EMERGENCY TEAM AS ERNESTO APPROACHES Calls 150 National Guard to Duty; Warns of Flooding and Urges Citizens to Prepare RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley today activated the State’s Emergency Response Team (SERT) and 150 National Guard soldiers as Tropical Storm Ernesto approaches North Carolina. The Governor is urging citizens to prepare for the likelihood of flooding and possible scattered power outages. The stonn could bring an average of three to five and as much as seven inches of rain to parts of the state Thursday and Friday. The heaviest rain is expected from the Triad to the coast. “This is primarily going to be a rain event for North Carolina with the potential for flooding especially in low-lying areas. People who live in these areas need to be ready to evacuate if they are ordered to do so or if they feel unsafe,” said Easley. “I urge everyone to stay tuned to local weather forecasts, heed the advice of local emergency officials, and take the necessary precautions to keep their families safe. “One of the greatest dangers will be flooded roads,” said Easley. “Do not drive in flooded waters. Most deaths from flooding occur in automobiles. These deaths are even more tragic because they can be prevented.” Winds from Ernesto are expected to be approximately 25 miles per hour. As with any tropical storm system there is always the possibility of power outages, so people need to be prepared with family emergency kits of food, water, and other items. The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane watch from Cape Fear to the South Carolina border as a precaution. Earlier this week, Easley reminded citizens it was time to update emergency plans and make sure they have a disaster supply kit ready. A disaster supply kit should include at least a three-day supply of bottled water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies and prescription medicines along with a battery- operated radio, copies of insurance papers and extra cash. “Ernesto should not be a major event for North Carolina, but it is still important that citizens be prepared,” Easley said. “Make sure you have your emergency plans in place and that your disaster supply kit is fully stocked.” -more- Govemor's Press Office State Capitol, Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166