Traveling through Hurricane Ian for the Clemson-NC State football game? What to know

Hurricane Ian might change your plans to travel to Clemson if you’re headed there for the Tigers’ game against N.C. State this weekend.

Both Central North Carolina and upstate South Carolina – can expect 3 to 7 inches of rain between Friday and Sunday, Nick Petro, warning coordination meteorologist at National Weather Service Raleigh, told The News & Observer on Tuesday. The Triangle region can expect a few gusts between 35 and 40 mph, but not sustained heavy wind.

“Everyone will see at least 3 inches — some will get 5, a few will get 7,” he said. “We’re looking at messy travels for anyone thinking about heading to Clemson.”

ESPN’s College GameDay will be on Clemson’s campus Saturday morning, likely previewing the 7:30 p.m. matchup from Clemson’s Bowman Field.

As the Carolinas expect downpours, heavy wind and flood conditions, here’s what you should know ahead of traveling to Clemson from the Triangle to see the Wolfpack take on the Tigers:

Hazardous road conditions, flash flooding

“There’s obviously going to be a lot of rain, and it can come down pretty heavy at times, which means there’s a definite risk of flash flooding,” Petro said. “And when it comes to flash flooding, the biggest risk is to people who are traveling. Most flash flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

It takes roughly five hours to drive from Raleigh to Clemson’s Memorial Stadium when a hurricane isn’t ripping through the southeast. Drivers should expect heavy traffic — not just from the expected knocked-down trees and flooded roads, but from those evacuating Florida who may be driving up to the Carolinas, Petro said.

Travelers can visit DriveNC.gov for the most up-to-date information on travel conditions, said Aaron Moody, the NC Department of Transportation’s assistant communications director.

When to drive to Clemson for NC State football game

Road conditions are going to be hazardous from Friday dinnertime onward, Petro said.

“If people want to ensure travel safely, consider going early — like a day early,” he said. Drivers should expect a long, slow drive to South Carolina if departing after the Friday workday.

And when driving back to the Triangle Sunday, remember lots of rain will have already come, and you’ll see lots of floodwater.

“But regardless of if you’re going to the game or locally commuting, wherever you need to go on the road this weekend, make sure you plan accordingly and plan alternate routes to get to your destination.” Petro said.

“You never know when you’ll get to an impassable flooded road — never, ever cross a flooded road. The best way to stay safe is to stay home, but plan other routes if you are going to be on the road.”

How to safely drive in rainy weather

Here’s how NCDOT recommends staying safe while driving in rainy weather:

• Slow down, and allow more time to reach your destination.

• Stay alert, and be ready for sudden stops or changes in road conditions.

• Make space to allow at least twice the normal following distance between vehicles.

• Signal for turns and brake earlier than usual.

• Turn on your headlights, as required by North Carolina law, when using the windshield wipers.

• Turn on your low-beam headlights, and use the defroster to increase visibility.

• Don’t stomp on your brakes if your vehicle begins to hydroplane (when your tires glide across the surface of the water on a road). Take your foot off the gas and apply the brakes in a steady, slightly firm manner, then steer in the direction of the skid.

(Source: ncdot.gov/initiatives-policies/safety)

Amtrak has canceled some routes (including the Amtrak Silver Star, which makes a stop in Raleigh) ahead of Hurricane Ian. To stay up to date with Amtrak cancellations and modifications, visit amtrak.com/alert.

Coach Dave Doeren concerned about Hurricane Ian

N.C. State head football coach Dave Doeren expressed concern Monday about Hurricane Ian disrupting the matchup, The State reported.

“If we can’t fly, then how are we going to get there?” Doeren said. “So there are a lot of things that we’re having to be ready for in case it gets like that.”

In 2016, Doeren led N.C. State to a 10-3 win over Notre Dame on a Slip ‘N Slide-esque field, as Hurricane Matthew’s lightning delayed the game by a half hour, and a voluntary evacuation of Carter-Finley Stadium was called.

“We’re going to have to have wet balls in practice. I’ve been through the hurricane situation before. I hope we don’t have to play in something like that Notre Dame game,” Doeren said. “But we’ll be prepared if it is raining ... We’ll plan for the worst and hope for the best.”