NORTH CAROLINA -- Governor Roy Cooper spoke again on Wednesday, issuing a state of emergency for North Carolina ahead of Hurricane Michael.

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As part of the state of emergency, Gov. Cooper said 150 National Guard troops will be on hand on Wednesday afternoon, ready to respond, if needed. He urged North Carolinians to be prepared for Michael.

Heavy rain and tropical storm force winds are to be expected according to the governor. Many counties across the state are under a Tropical Storm Warning or Tropical Storm Watch.

Winds are also expected to be strong enough to bring down trees already weakened from Florence, and some areas can expect to see up to 7 inches of rain Thursday.

 

 

NC Emergency Management Director Mike Sprayberry also spoke during Wednesday morning's press conference, warning against power outages, downed trees, and flooding. People can download ReadyNC app for preparedness tips.
 
 
The state is also prepared to open shelters if necessary. There are 11 shelters that remain open from Hurricane Florence.

Cooper concluded by stating that NCDOT will be ready to deal with flooded roads as conditions warrant.

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