Brunswick County opens 2 hurricane shelters

The shelters opened at noon in preparation for the arrival of Tropical Storm/Hurricane Isaias, but capacity is very limited

Brunswick County opened its two primary hurricane shelters Monday as Southeastern N.C. awaited the arrival of Tropical Storm/Hurricane Isaias.

The shelters are at Cedar Grove Middle School, 750 Grove Trail SW in Supply, and Town Creek Middle School, 6370 Lake Park Drive SE in Winnabow.

Because shelter capacity has been severely diminished due to social distancing required by the coronavirus pandemic, officials say shelters should only be considered as a last resort.

Alternative shelters in the event of overflow will be announced as needed. For more information, go to BrunswickCountyNC.gov/shelters.

Officials in Pender and New Hanover counties said they are not currently planning to open shelters.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, certain rules are in place at the two shelters:

* Face coverings must be worn at all times. Disposable face coverings will be provided to anyone who does not have one.

* Shelter guests must be screened for COVID-19 before entering. Anyone suspected of having COVID-19, or who has been in contact with anyone has had the disease, will have to stay in an isolated section of the shelter.

* Ready-to-eat meal kits and bottled water will be provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hot meals will not be cooked at the shelter, but people can bring their own food.

* Some cots will be provided, but people should bring blankets, pillows or sleeping bags.

* Individuals and families must remain in their assigned sections of the shelter mat all times.

* The only pets allowed at the shelters are dogs and cats

As of noon on Monday, Brunswick County was under a hurricane warning, a storm surge warning and a flash flood watch. The National Weather Service in Wilmington is projecting four to six inches of rain across the county, wind speeds of 50 to 60 miles per hour, and wind gusts of up to 65 miles per hour. The rain, along with the full moon tide Monday evening, could increase the risk for storm surge and flooding.

Those living in low-lying areas or structures that are prone to flooding or wind damage are strongly encouraged to find somewhere else to go before the storm arrives.

Contact John Staton at 910-343-2343 or John.Staton@StarNewsOnline.com.