RALEIGH, N.C. (WITN) – Governor Roy Cooper this afternoon declared a state of emergency ahead of the remnants of Hurricane Debby hitting the state.

Cooper said the storm has the potential for life-threatening flash flooding, river flooding, wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour, and coastal impacts.

“This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it,” said Governor Cooper. “As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe.”

The executive order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan and allows state agencies to take action that ensures the movement of utility vehicles and those carrying essential supplies to get where they need to be.