SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — Both Boiling Springs Lakes and Oak Island officials signed off on a state of emergency due to potential impacts from a tropical cyclone off the southeastern coast.
READ MORE: Tropical storm warning in tri-county area, multiple closures
Heavy rainfall, higher-than-normal wind gusts and potential tornadoes and waterspouts are possible in the tri-county region. The area is also under a flash flood watch and according to the National Weather Service.
Boiling Springs Lakes has received more than 8 inches of rain since midnight Sunday.
An emergency order is signed when there is “imminent threat” to property and public safety. Commissioner Chair Kimberly Sherwood filed the emergency declaration to be in effect at 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 16, through 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18.
Mayor Liz White on Oak Island and Mayor Lynn Barbee in Carolina Beach — the latter of which has received 18 inches of rain since midnight — did the same, in effect until further notice.
Town officials have enacted emergency response plans and while the declarations currently do not include a curfew, evacuations or restricted business operations or access, the town can take such measures as needed.
The state of emergency also allows for aid to be procured by entities like FEMA should towns experience severe damage.
The governor’s office announced Monday afternoon that its State Emergency Response Team is under an Enhanced Watch Activation. They’re assessing the issue in case state resources are needed.
“I have spoken with Representative Miller and Senator Lee,” Barbee wrote on his socials Monday. “They have both offered assistance.”
Brunswick County Commissioner Chair Randy Thompson also declared a state of emergency Monday around 11:30 a.m. It affects unincorporated areas only, as municipalities have to sign their own. In the county, it gives the sheriff’s office control of entries and exits on roadways impacted by flooding or fallen trees.
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