CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. -- Hurricane Florence is expected to make landfall later this week and Atlantic Beach is already seeing its effects.

• Atlantic Beach is at risk of major flooding
• Atlantic Beach Fire Department is urging residents to prepare now in case the hurricane makes landfall Thursday morning
• Locals who are able to evacuate are encouraged to do so but those who choose not to should have at least three days worth of food and water

Atlantic Beach is at risk of major flooding with high tides as a result of Florence looming off the coast.

Atlantic Beach Fire Department is urging residents to prepare now in case the hurricane makes landfall Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service.

Despite the forecast, the fire department is grateful for the mild hurricane seasons the past few years.

“We’ve been fortunate the last several years, we haven’t had a major storm really come close to us. And this one looks like we’re going to sustain some sort of impact,” said Captain Stephenson.

Locals who are able to evacuate are encouraged to do so but those who choose not to should have at least three days worth of food and water in case crews cannot immediately come to the aid of residents. For a list of helpful supplies, click here.