PENDER COUNTY — The Pender County Office of Emergency Management is urging residents to prepare for a tropical storm, as the National Weather Service upgraded the area from a watch to a warning earlier today.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm has potential to bring sustained winds of up to 40 mph, with gusts approaching 50 mph. The storm is predicted to produce approximately 5 inches of rain, leaving the potential for flooding to occur.
“We’re tracking this storm,” said Pender County Emergency Manager Tom Collins. “Every Pender County Resident should take precautions to prepare for possible power outages. Citizens in low lying areas should be alert for localized flooding.”
The Pender County Office of Emergency Management urges all residents to secure lawn furniture, gas grills, and items that can become flying debris.
Residents are also urged to take this opportunity to assemble emergency supply kits. According to the Pender County Health Department, these should include at least one gallon of water per person, non-perishable packed or canned foods and juices, a can opener, rain gear, flashlights, a radio with fresh batteries, fully charged cell phones with an extra battery, cash, and fuel for generators.
All important documents should be secured in a waterproof container, all pets should be secured.
According to the National Weather Service, the tropical storms impacts include minor structural damage, large limbs and trees downed and scattered power outages.
Pender County Emergency Management will post updates on their Facebook page, as well as penderem.com.
If you need assistance, call the Emergency Management office at (910)259-1210.
