WASHINGTON – As Dorian remains mostly stalled over the Bahamas and its path over the next few days remains uncertain, FEMA urges residents and visitors along the southeastern coast of the United States to complete preparations, monitor the storm closely, and follow instructions and warnings of local officials.
Hurricane Dorian will have dangerous impacts even if it does not make landfall. Life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds are expected along Florida’s east coast later tonight as well as along the coasts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina this week.
Follow Local Evacuation Orders
Storm tracks can change rapidly – those in the potential impact areas should continue to pay attention to Dorian’s forecast. If you are told to evacuate, don’t tough it out, get out.
- The state of Florida has issued mandatory as well as voluntary or phased evacuations for a number of counties. In Florida, download the FL511 Mobile App for updated road and traffic conditions on evacuation routes.
- The state of Georgia issued mandatory evacuations and contraflow of Interstate 16 will begin at 8 am on Tuesday, September 3. Residents in Georgia should visit GEMA.Georgia.gov for the latest in evacuation and storm information.
- The state of South Carolina has also issued mandatory evacuations along the coast effective today at noon. Those in South Carolina can download the SC Emergency Manager mobile app by visiting www.scemd.org.
- Those in North Carolina can download the ReadyNC mobile app by visiting www.readync.org.
Evacuations may expand to other areas based on the evolving track of the storm. Before evacuating, fill up your gas tank, stock your vehicle with emergency supplies, and know your evacuation routes.
Flooding is a key risk with this storm. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other severe weather-related hazard. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
Download the FEMA App for preparedness tips, shelter information, and weather alerts. You also can visit Ready.gov for more information on what you can do ahead of this dangerous storm.
Federal departments and agencies have positioned resources from Florida to North Carolina to support the response. Commodities such as water, shelf stable meals, blankets, and cots are strategically staged and are ready to support requests from states or tribes. Generators and fuel also are being staged.
Aid to the Bahamas
A prolonged period of hurricane-force winds and storm surge continues to impact the north western Bahamas. DHS and FEMA leadership are closely monitoring the situation and remain in coordination with leadership from the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
USAID is in contact with the government of the Bahamas to determine response needs as Hurricane Dorian continues to impact the islands. The United States Coast Guard, in coordination with the Department of State, has a mutual aid agreement with the Bahamas to provide resources and assist in search and rescue missions. In addition, the American Red Cross has resources and staff in place in the Bahamas and stands ready to assist survivors with emergency sheltering and other immediate needs.
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