Florence remains a major, category 4 hurricane. The latest update from the National Hurricane Center shows Florence producing max sustained winds of 140 mph and wind gusts topping 165 mph. Forecast confidence is increasing regarding landfall location and time. The latest update has shifted the track slightly south and slowing down as it makes its way towards the Carolinas.

Landfall will likely take place late Thursday or early Friday over southeastern North Carolina. If this slower trend continues a Friday landfall will becomes more likely. But remember, this is a massive tropical system with a diameter of 500 miles. To put that in perspective, the entire state of North Carolina is exactly 500 miles long. So that means regardless of the exact landfall, the impacts will begin well before then. Tomorrow may be your last full good weather day to prepare. By Thursday our weather will only deteriorate as time wears on and Florence approaches the Carolina coastline. 

Potential Coastal Impacts

A category 4 hurricane like Florence can cause catastrophic damage due to storm surge and destructive winds. A Hurricane Watch and Warning now emcompass much of eastern North Carolina. These are issued when a given area will likely deal with hurricane force winds (at least 74 MPH) within the next 24 to 36 hours.

Major damage is possible to even well built, framed homes including the loss of roof structure and exterior walls. Most trees would be snapped or uprooted along with power poles. Power outages could last for weeks. Flooding issues look to be widespread due to expected rainfall totals ranging from 15 to 20+ inches. Also with tropical systems, weak, short-lived tornadoes also possible.

Locations that have been directly hit by a category 4 hurricane in the past have been uninhabitable for weeks. Coastal residents should be prepared to evacuate if and when local officials issue evacuation orders.  

Potential Inland Impacts

Hurricanes weaken as they move inland, but its often a gradual process. That means Florence could still produce destructive winds well inland from the coast. Areas like the Triangle and Sandhills could receive between 6 to 12 inches of rain and winds between 20 to 50+ mph with even stronger wind gusts possible. The threat of weak tornadoes will be low, but present so remain weather aware. 

Trends in the data show Florence will likely travel west across the length of North Carolina. If this occurrs, areas like Greensboro. Charlotte and surrounding locations will receive a stronger impact. As of right now we'll forecast winds ranging between 20 to 40 mph and rainfall amounts between 2 to 6 inches.

Keep in mind there are some computer model forecasts suggesting Florence may slow down or even stall after it moves inland. That could prolong a period of heavy rain across inland areas leading to devastating flooding.  

So make sure you and your family are prepared now before Florence arrives. Certain items to remember includes a 3 to 5 day supply of food and water for each member of your househild. Make sure all your electronic devices are charged up with back up batteries ready. Also include a first aid kit along with any needed prescribed medication.

Evacuations are not needed for inland residents unless you think your home cannot withstand the wind speeds forecast for your location or if you live in a flood prone area. 

Stay tuned to Spectrum News for continuing coverage as we prepare for Hurricane Florence.