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Duke Energy preparing for Hurricane Helene, urges others to do the same
Duke Energy is preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Helene – and is encouraging others to do the same.
Duke Energy said it’s closely monitoring the projected track of Helene, the latest tropical system developing in the Caribbean that’s expected to impact North Carolina later this week.
“Our line technicians and tree crews are diligently preparing and will be ready to respond,” Duke Energy said.
The storm is expected to bring heavy rains, high winds and localized flooding to the area early Friday morning.
“We encourage you to prepare now,” Duke Energy said.
How to prepare for Helene
You need to be prepared when a hurricane hits. Here is a breakdown of everything you need to know so you and your family are prepared when Hurricane Helene hits North Carolina this week.
Make an emergency supply kit
Have an emergency supply kit ready so you can take it with you during an evacuation or when you are forced to stay at home for days.
You can find a complete checklist by clicking here or the link below.
Make a family emergency plan
It’s important to make a family emergency plan and be ready when severe weather strikes.
Fill out this form to make an emergency plan to share with your family. Then make sure everyone in your household has discussed the plan and knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
Know your zone
In the event of a hurricane or tropical storm, it’s important to know if you’re in an evacuation zone.
Evacuation zones highlight the areas that are most at risk when it comes to storm surge and flooding. Twenty-one coastal counties have established predetermined evacuation zones.
You can find your zone by using the map provided by the North Carolina Department of Public Safety.
Be aware of evacuation routes
When a hurricane is approaching, it’s important to memorize coastal evacuation plans and routes in case of a severe storm.
Find your evacuation route by clicking here.
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You can report power outages on Duke Energy’s website or through the mobile app; you can also text OUT to 57801 or call 1-800-769-3766.
To see which areas are experiencing outages in real time, go to outagemap.duke-energy.com.
Don’t forget to sign up for WRAL News weather alerts for the latest updates about Hurricane Helene. Tune into WRAL News+ for live coverage leading up to, and during, the storm.