NC Emergency Management

It’s #NationalHurricanePreparednessWeek so let’s start with the basics. Hurricanes can bring different hazards such as storm surge, flooding, wind, tornadoes, and rip currents. To learn how to prepare for these hazards, visit ReadyNC.gov. #ReadyNC

Even if a tropical storm is 2,000 miles away, it can still create deadly rip currents even on sunny days. Check the surf forecast before you pack your bags. If the rip current risk is HIGH, stay out of the water. If in doubt, don't go out. #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek

If you spot someone in a rip current don't enter the water. Signal a lifeguard or call 911. If you have a surfboard, life jacket, or other floatation devices, throw it to them. Tell them to swim parallel to the shore before heading back to land. #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek

The NC SERT, in partnership with the @NCBroadcasters, held a Broadcast Infrastructure Summit today at your SEOC in Raleigh. NCEM collaborates with broadcast entities across NC, providing the public with timely information during an emergency situation. #ReadyNC

Last week, NC Wilderness Search and Rescue Teams held Field Team Member training to teach search fundamentals, navigation, mapping, survival skills, and patient care. This training boosts their ability to aid local first responders in finding missing people.

😨 Roughly half of all rip current-related deaths in the Carolinas are out-of-state visitors! 🚨 If you plan on visiting the beach, make sure you know the forecast, swim near lifeguards, and understand how to get out of a rip current. #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek

Surf Zone Forecasts can warn you of low, moderate, and high-risk rip current conditions. Before heading to the beach, check the Surf Zone Forecast for local conditions at weather.gov/safety/ripcurr…. #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek #ReadyNC

Don't let a calm view fool you. That peaceful gap between the breaking waves is often a rip current hiding in plain sight. It flattens the surf as it pulls water away from the beach. Scan for murky or still spots before you dive in. #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek #ReadyNC

❓Did you know that NCEM has 61 state recognized wilderness search and rescue teams that are ready to respond to help local first responders find missing people? We are thankful for training just like what happened in Durham Co last night! Story link: cbs17.com/news/local-new…

🚫🔥While it was sooo nice to see rain, it did little to help us out of the drought and to lessen fire risk. That being said.... the burn ban remains in place. We recommend getting some of the s'mores pop-tarts if you are missing that treat next to a campfire. Yum. #ReadyNC

⚠️ If you get caught in a rip current, don’t panic! Try to swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline, or toward breaking waves, then at an angle toward the beach. Yell or wave for help. #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek #ReadyNC

It’s #CarolinasRipCurrentAwarenessWeek so let’s start with the basics! A rip current pulls you out to sea. Even the strongest swimmers can’t outswim it by swimming straight back to the beach. Stay aware, check the local surf forecast, and always swim near a lifeguard. #ReadyNC

It’s Fun Fact Friday! The NC State Fossil is the fossilized teeth of Megalodon sharks. We don’t have to worry about these massive sharks, but we still have to watch out for smaller ones. Swim near lifeguards and avoid murky water and areas with fishing or drop-offs. #ReadyNC

2 of 2: "..biggest thing today is there will be TONS of smoke in the area. @ncforestservice will be doing some controlled back burning to help contain fire. You will see spotter planes in the air, with other aircraft on standby. Thankfully all homes are protected.." #ReadyNC

🔥Attn Avery/Mitchell- Wildfire Update from Avery EM : "..we are here at the County Line brush fire still. At this time we are at 45% containment, acreage burnt still being determined this morning. We have ALL the resources and staff on scene or on stand-by. 1 of 2

NCEM is proud to partner with many gov and non-gov orgs that work collaboratively to prepare for disasters in NC! Check out this video from @CiscoCrisisResp on the 2026 Statewide Comms Exercise- "Hear in Hyde" #ReadyNC facebook.com/share/v/1DwWY6…

As of April 18, 2026, the state-issued ban on open burning remains in effect for all 100 counties. Additionally, the USDA Forest Service has implemented fire restrictions across national forests in North Carolina. All open burning is prohibited until further notice.

It’s Fun Fact Friday! Mt. Mitchell in Yancey County has the highest peak east of the Mississippi at 6,684 ft. There are a variety of trails so check it out for yourself! Remember to check the weather first, stick to marked trails, and pack extra water. ncparks.gov/state-parks/mo…

Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week to all of our 911 dispatchers, radio technicians, and emergency personnel who provide telecommunications support. We appreciate your hard work and dedication to keep North Carolinians safe. #NPSTW

Spring in NC means sometimes it’s sunny at 10 AM and a severe thunderstorm by 3 PM. Make it a habit to check the radar before you leave for school pickup or errands, so you don’t get caught without an umbrella. A lot can change in those few hours. #ReadyNC