Burke County Emergency Officials Say Isaias Could Bring Minor To Moderate Impacts - WHKY

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Burke County Emergency Officials Say Isaias Could Bring Minor To Moderate Impacts

BURKE COUNTY, N.C. (WHKY) – Burke County Emergency Management is closely monitoring Hurricane Isaias as the storm moves north through the Gulf of Mexico. Although the storm’s projected path is still well west of Burke County, portions of Western North Carolina could experience heavy rainfall, localized flash flooding, and gusty winds as the system weakens and moves east.

While this is not expected to be another Hurricane Helene, residents should remain aware of the potential for localized impacts.

Based on the current forecast information, Burke County is preparing for the following:

Heavy Rainfall: Rainfall totals could reach 4 – 6 inches, with isolated amounts approaching 7 inches along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Elsewhere along the lower elevations only 2-4 inches of rain. These amounts remain subject to change.

Flash Flooding: The greatest concern is localized flash flooding, particularly in the Jonas Ridge, Ginger Cake Acres, and Pisgah National Forest areas, along with streams and waterways draining toward Lake James.

Wind Impacts: The potential for gusty winds has increased slightly due to a tighter pressure gradient between high pressure to the north and Isaias to the Southwest.

Lake James: Burke County remains in close communication with Duke Energy. Based on current expectations, Lake James should be able to accommodate the predicted inflows without significant impacts.

Burke County is actively coordinating with the National Weather Service, North Carolina Emergency Management, the State Emergency Response Team (SERT), Duke Energy, and local emergency management partners. The Burke County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is stood up to enhanced monitoring and is prepared to move to full activation is conditions warrant activation

Preparations are also underway to activate the Burke County Joint Information Center (JIC) should conditions warrant. The JIC would bring together county and municipal partners to coordinate public information and ensure residents receive consistent, timely updates throughout the event.

Lessons learned during Hurricane Helene continue to guide Burke County’s preparedness and public communication efforts. Our priority is to provide accurate information early, keep residents informed as conditions change, and ensure our community has the information needed to make safe decisions.

Residents are encouraged to:

· Monitor official Burke County Government communications and National Weather Service forecasts.

· Review emergency plans and remain prepared for changing conditions.

· Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.

Burke County will continue providing updates as new information becomes available. Any significant changes to the forecast, expected impacts, or Lake James conditions will be communicated promptly.