As Hurricane Dorian slowly crawls toward N.C., the Orange County community is communicating tips on how to be prepared in the event of an emergency.
According to recent weather reports, Orange County may only experience rain and moderately high winds as Dorian passes, but the towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough hope to be prepared for any potential disaster.
Ran Northam, community safety communications specialist for the Town of Chapel Hill, said the town has experienced severe weather in the recent past with hurricanes Florence and Matthew, and those experiences have made them more prepared for Dorian's arrival.
Flooding is one of Chapel Hill's main concerns when it comes to heavy rainfall, Northam said, so Town employees have been checking streams and storm drains all week to ensure they are free of any debris that would promote water backup and lead to potential flooding.
Northam said staff have also been ensuring that Town facilities and equipment, such as traffic signal generators, are fully fueled and prepared to offer a quick response in the event of any power outages.
"It's kind of a coin toss right now as to whether we'll even be affected, but we're going to be prepared regardless," Northam said. "If it turns right at us, we'll be prepared for that even."
As of now, Northam said all town buildings and facilities plan to operate at normal business hours.
If there is the need for shelters during the storm, Northam said they would be opened by the county. Any needs for food or water resources would be coordinated and met by the county, as well.
Chapel Hill Transit will remain open as long as it is safe for both the riders and staff members, Northam said. Any route closures or detours will be communicated on the Town's website and social media channels for the Town and Chapel Hill Transit.
