North Carolina governor Bev Perdue placed the National Guard on standby and activated an emergency management regional center in Kinston. Perdue said state government is planning for 24-hour staffing this weekend.
Ms. Perdue downplayed the possibility of the hurricane slamming the North Carolina coast before the end of the week, saying visitors should remain on vacation until conditions become unsafe.
“This is the last 10 days of prime tourism season in North Carolina. We don’t want to over-alert anyone,” she said.
The North Carolina Democrat said it will be Thursday before Emergency Management leaders know for sure what Irene will do.
“So, until then, I would like everybody in America to understand that North Carolina is the best vacation destination spot in the country or world and you ought to come on down because we’re open for business and we would love for you to visit this great state.”
Ms. Perdue stressed that North Carolina is prepared to respond if the storm hits the state, but also warned residents to prepare for the worst.
“Please make sure you have three days worth of food, water and supplies,” said Ms. Perdue. “You may lose water or electrical power during the storm, and grocery stores and other businesses may be closed. Also make sure you know the evacuation routes in case you must leave the area.”
“The track continues to change,” the governor added. “The bottom line is, none of us know.”
Meanwhile, in the Dominican Republic, waters flooded homes and streets, and scattering debris. Hundreds were displaced by flooding, and forced them to take refuge in churches, schools or relatives’ homes. Electricity was also cut in some areas.
The National Weather service said they expect the hurricane to grow in strength and that it is likely to strike most of the eastern coast of the U.S. by the weekend.
