With the absolute devastation in the Bahamas that hasn’t even begun to be calculated on a real level, those awaiting Hurricane Dorian’s wrath are on edge – especially as about two-million people remain under evacuation orders. With that in mind, President Trump is approving a federal disaster declaration for North Carolina ahead of Dorian’s arrival.
Officials say the declaration will speed federal aid to the state, including bringing more FEMA and military personnel and resources for preparation and relief efforts. Governor Roy Cooper ordered evacuations from the barrier islands as the storm is expected to impact the North Carolina coast. In a statement, the governor says they are taking every precaution to make sure they're prepared.
They’re not alone – officials in South Carolina are also urging residents to get out of town because of the increasing threat from Dorian. Currently a category two hurricane, the National Hurricane Center says the center is forecast to move near or over the coast of the Carolinas starting tomorrow.
Dorian is already bringing tropical storm conditions to parts of the northeastern coast of Florida. At last check, the National Hurricane Center says the Category 2 storm is about 80-miles east of Cape Canaveral, packing sustained winds of 110-miles per hour. Flooding and storm surge are expected to pose threats as Dorian marches up the East Coast at a steady three-miles per hour.
Portions of the Carolinas could see storm surge as high as seven-feet. There are hurricane watches and warnings posted throughout Florida and North Carolina. Where those warnings are in effect, the Hurricane Center says "preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion."
Meanwhile… Bahamian officials have confirmed at least seven people dead in the Bahamas after Dorian chewed through the islands. Prime Minister Hubert Minnis said those who died were in Abaco, where damage was most severe. Minnis says he believes the death toll will rise.
Source: The Weather Channel