Gov. Cooper Declares State Of Emergency In North Carolina

Gov. Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency for North Carolina on Friday (November 13) following heavy rains and widespread flooding across the state that claimed multiple lives on Thursday. Though much of the rain has passed, flood warnings remain in effect for most of central North Carolina and along rivers, the governor's office said in a statement.

Much of the state saw between 4 and 9 inches of rain, while in cities like Rocky Mount and Harrisburg got more than 9 inches. Cooper's office said the dangerous downpour was a result of a cold front mixing with moisture from Tropical Storm Eta. The storm has caused flooding in other coastal states like Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia.

In North Carolina, at least four people were killed at a campground in Hiddenite, and multiple remain unaccounted for, including a 1-year-old boy. More than 30 people were rescued from the rising waters at the campground on Thursday. Another person was killed in a car crash nearby due to high waters. Additionally, Rolesville Police found the body of a child in a flooded creek near his home.

Local reporters also captured the moment when a bridge collapsed just feet away from them.

Prior to Gov. Cooper's announcement, States of Emergency were already declared in Alexander, Burke, Catawba, Iredell, and Yadkin counties. Though rivers in the western part of the state may begin to receded Friday, Cooper's office said, those in eastern areas will continue to rise.

"This storm has already claimed several lives, and everyone should exercise caution by avoiding flooded roads and areas along swollen creeks and rivers," said Gov. Cooper. "Our prayers go out to the families and friends of those who were injured or killed by these devastating floods."

Stay up to date on the state's flood mapping at fiman.nc.gov and on road closures at DriveNC.gov.

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