Under the proactive leadership of Governor Roy Cooper, North Carolina is swiftly responding to a powerful tropical storm that has inflicted widespread damage across the state’s southeastern counties. Governor Cooper, demonstrating his commitment to the state’s safety, personally visited Brunswick County on Thursday to meet with emergency management officials, assess storm damage, and discuss ongoing recovery operations. This visit, following the Governor’s Tuesday declaration of a State of Emergency for Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, and New Hanover counties, underscores his hands-on approach to crisis management.
As the full scope of the destruction became clearer, Cooper quickly expanded the State of Emergency on Wednesday, adding four additional counties to the declaration. The amended order also includes critical transportation waivers to speed up recovery efforts. These waivers facilitate the transport of essential supplies and equipment, such as fuel and construction materials, to the hardest-hit areas.
“North Carolinians have faced storms like this before, and I’m grateful for the efforts of our first responders, emergency management teams, and local officials who acted swiftly to help those impacted,” said Governor Cooper. “However, the work is far from over. Residents must continue to stay safe, avoid flooded areas, and follow the guidance of local authorities.”
The tropical storm brought torrential rains, flooding, and high winds to the region, leaving a trail of damaged homes, power outages, and disrupted infrastructure. As cleanup efforts begin, state and local officials emphasize the importance of caution. Floodwaters have made many roads impassable, and road barricades remain in multiple areas. Governor Cooper urged residents not to drive through flooded areas and to heed all emergency warnings.
Social media has been pivotal in spreading awareness and safety advice, with hashtags like #NCStormWatch, #CooperResponds, and #NCEmergency trending across platforms. North Carolinians use these viral hashtags to share storm updates, highlight community resilience, and offer tips for staying safe during recovery efforts.
With Governor Cooper at the helm of the state’s response, North Carolina is swiftly assessing the damage, restoring services, and supporting communities in need. As the state embarks on its recovery journey, it is crucial for residents to stay informed through updates from local authorities and social media. These platforms provide real-time information and guidance, ensuring that residents are well-equipped to navigate the recovery process.
