Tropical Storm Florence: State of emergency declared in Virginia ahead of 'major hurricane'

Adam Forrest
Updated

The governor of Virginia has declared a state of emergency ahead of the arrival of Tropical Storm Florence, expected to strengthen into a “major hurricane” next week.

Forecasters expect Florence to reach hurricane status on Monday as it swirls across the Atlantic towards the US East Coast.

The National Hurricane Center said “a rapid phase of intensification” would begin today, with Florence set to approach the southeastern coastline on Thursday.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam warned of high winds and possible flooding, insisting the state gets ready for hurricane storms.

The governor urged residents to assemble an emergency kit with food, water, medication, pet supplies and any important documents.

Coastal residents have been advised to check what hurricane evacuation zone they live in.

“I am declaring a state of emergency so that we can begin to prepare state assets, and I encourage Virginians to monitor forecasts and make their own preparations now,” said Mr Northam.

Although there is still some uncertainty over exactly when, where and how powerfully the storm could hit the US mainland, the National Hurricane Center said “the risk of direct impacts continues to increase.”

The US Navy has ordered ships stationed in Virginia to be moved out of the port.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency on Friday, followed swiftly by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster.

“We are preparing for the worst and of course hoping for the best. Being prepared is always the best strategy,” said Mr McMaster.

Florence is currently located about 790 miles southeast of Bermuda and the storm has maximum sustained winds of 70 mph.

Swells from the storm are already beginning to reach parts of the US coastline and could result in “life-threatening” surf and rip currents, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The Miami-based body tweeted: “This weekend take a few minutes to review your hurricane preparedness plan or develop one.”