CURRENT EVENT: TROPICAL STORM ISAIAS
Pitt County Emergency Management is currently monitoring the forecast of Tropical Storm Isaias. As response efforts adapt to meet the challenges of this storm, please refer to this page often for the latest information on how to protect yourself during this event.
FORECAST
To view the latest conditions information and forecast projections from the National Weather Service, CLICK HERE.
UPDATES
- COUNTY OFFICES TO DELAY OPENING: To allow for any residual impacts from Tropical Storm Isaias, Pitt County will operate on a 2 hour delay for Tuesday, August 4, 2020. Offices will open at 10:00 AM.
- EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT UPDATE: Pitt County Emergency Management (PCEM) continues to monitor the forecasted track and intensity of Tropical Storm Isaias. Due to the current forecast, along with concerns for safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pitt County has no plans to open shelters at this time. PCEM is instead encouraging residents to shelter in place if possible, or to consider staying with family or friends that have a safe place to shelter. PCEM will continue to monitor the storm and make adjustments to our response as needed.
- HEALTH DEPARTMENT SUSPENDS COVID-19 TESTING: As of Friday, July 31, 2020, Pitt County Health Director, Dr. John L. Silvernail made the decision to suspend operations at all COVID-19 testing sites for Monday and Tuesday, August 3 and 4, 2020. This decision comes in preparation for potential impacts from Isaias. While the final path of the storm remains to be seen, Dr. Silvernail clarified the importance of preventative action, saying “whether this storm brings significant damage to our community or not, the planning required to ensure the safety of our staff, and the hundreds of clients they serve, must be taken now.” Dr. Silvernail went on to note that “should the worst happen, our staff need to be ready and prepared to tackle the unique challenges of storm response; such as emergency shelter work, and adapting to fight the COVID-19 pandemic in a weather emergency.” As of now, there are no plans for extended suspension of testing services, however all response options will be considered by Dr. Silvernail during the threat of Hurricane Isaias. The Health Department is continuing to work closely with Pitt County Emergency Management (PCEM) in their education efforts to encourage every to be prepared ahead of the storm.
READY KIT
During any storm or natural disaster, it is important to be READY. That’s why PCEM staff have made available a ReadyKit Checklist which lists important items needed during a storm or other natural disaster.
- To download a copy of the ReadyKit Checklist by CLICK HERE
- Para descargar una copia de la Lista de verificación de ReadyKit HAGA CLIC AQUÍ.
KNOW YOUR ZONE
In a special video message released by the Public Information Office on Friday, Emergency Management Director, Randy Gentry, encouraged residents to be prepared ahead of disaster. This preparation includes assembling a Hurricane ReadyKit, Identifying alternative sheltering options to help limit the spread of COVID-19, and educating yourself on the new “Know Your Zone” initiative. Through this initiative, the state has worked with 20 coastal counties to create predetermined evacuation zones to help coastal residents stay safe from the impacts of hurricanes, tropical storms and other hazards, while allowing for simple and orderly evacuations.
- To view the video message from Director Randy Gentry, CLICK HERE.
COVID-19 RESPONSE
For latest information on COVID-19 response efforts through Hurricane Isaias and beyond, use one of the following options: