Tropical storm Helene makes way into North Carolina | Live

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The rain continues as remnants of Helene track north into the southern Appalachians.

Helene has been downgraded to a tropical storm and is expected to weaken as it moves further inland in Georgia. Light showers are possible in the morning. It was a morning and afternoon of tornado warnings across the ABC11 viewing area. Click here for weather alerts in in central North Carolina.

Rainfall totals are expected to be 1 to 2 inches with some areas experiencing more on Friday. Wind gusts could reach over 40 mph. There is also an isolated tornado risk.

Cooper, alongside other community leaders, spoke at a news Friday conference about storm updates.

A tree fell on a Raleigh apartment complex off Wake Forest Road.

Tracking Helene

Helene weakened to a tropical storm over Georgia early Friday after making landfall overnight in northwestern Florida as a Category 4 hurricane.

With maximum sustained winds of 70 mph, the storm continues to weaken moving further inland. The storm was about 40 miles (65 kilometers) east of Macon and about 100 miles (165 kilometers) southeast of Atlanta, moving north at 30 mph (48 kph) at 5 a.m., the hurricane center in Miami reported.

Forecasters warned that the enormous storm could create a "nightmare" surge in coastal areas and bring dangerous winds and rain across much of the southeastern U.S.

Over 1.2 million homes and businesses were without power in Florida, over 900,000 in Georgia and over 927,000 in the Carolinas, according to the tracking site poweroutage.us.

There have been at least 26 storm-related deaths. This includes two in North Carolina -- one in Charlotte and another in Catawba County.

Hurricane and flash flood warnings were extended far beyond the coast up into northern Georgia and western North Carolina.

Up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain had fallen in the North Carolina mountains, with up to 14 inches (36 centimeters) more possible before the deluge ends, setting the stage for flooding that forecasters warned could be worse than anything seen in the past century.

"We expect it to weaken further. It's going to turn northward and turn northwestward and eventually move into Tennessee and Kentucky, and merge with a funnel system up in that area," said Jack Beven, a senior hurricane specialist at the National Hurricane Center.

The storm should continue to weaken Friday afternoon, with winds dropping below 40 mph (64 kph), but it will still produce widespread heavy rain over the Appalachian Mountains with the possibility of mudslides and flash flooding, Beven said.

Colorado State University hurricane researcher Phil Klotzbach said Helene is forecast to be one of the largest storms in breadth in years to hit the region.

Weather Safety Tips, Resources

You can use the Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network to track water levels near you and which areas may be impacted by flooding.

Here are some hacks to keep your phone charged during a power outage

You can report a power outage at 57801, use the Duke Energy app or their website.

RELATED | How long does food last in the refrigerator and freezer after a power outage?

You can check for road closures due to the storm.

Many parts of the ABC11 coverage should prepare for a lot of rain and possible flooding.

"It is extremely important that every North Carolinian know what to do well before, during and after a storm occurs to best mitigate any damages and loss of life," said Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey. "These storms are powerful, but precious lives and property can be spared if you take the time in advance to familiarize yourself with these tips."

Causey offered up some tips for residents to get ready for severe weather:

Before the Storm

• Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage. Know exactly what your insurance policy covers. Homeowners' policies do not cover flooding. At this time, you can only purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Be aware there is a 30-day waiting period before flood policies take effect. If you live in a rental property, your landlord's insurance only covers the building. None of your personal belongings are insured unless you purchase your own renters' policy.

• Compile important documents. Gather important paperwork, including insurance policies, medical records and prescriptions. Be prepared to bring copies with you if you are forced to evacuate your home. Know how to get in touch with your insurance agent and company.

• Create a home inventory. Go room to room in your home and write down the brand name, description, estimated value and date of purchase of items in your home. It is also helpful to compile receipts, appraisal documents and serial numbers. Take videos or photographs of your belongings. Store your home inventory and related documents in a safe, easily accessible place online, on your smartphone, on your computer or in a fire-proof box or safe deposit box.

• Identify potential hazards around your home. Hanging tree branches, loose shingles, patio furniture and other outdoor objects can cause damage or injuries in a storm. Make repairs or secure large objects to reduce the threat.

• Check your emergency toolkit and go bag. Update items such as food, medicine and batteries.

• Electricity may go out, so make sure you have extra drinking water. Also, fill the bathtub with water for bathing and flushing the toilet.

During The Storm

• Shelter in place if officials advise it.

• Stay away from windows, glass doors and skylights.

• Find a safe place to stay in the interior of the home on a lower floor unless flooding is a possibility.

• Make sure your cell phone is charged. Do not use a landline if lightning is present.

• Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if flooding becomes a threat.

• Remain indoors until officials give notice that it is safe to go outside.

• If officials order an evacuation, do not come home until officials advise it is safe to do so.

After The Storm

• Contact your homeowners' insurance agent or company to report the loss. Even if you have a separate windstorm or hail policy in addition to your homeowners' policy, your primary homeowners' insurer will investigate and adjust the claim even if you have wind or hail loss. Be patient as the insurer will likely be dealing with many claims.

• Make a list of the damages and take clear pictures before you make any temporary repairs.

• Do what you can to stop further damage from happening. For instance, place a tarp on your roof to prevent water from coming into the house. Keep receipts because your reasonable expenses to protect your property are part of the loss and may be reimbursed by your insurance company.

• Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company has inspected the damage and you have agreed on the cost of the repairs. Check with your insurance company before you dispose of damaged materials or items.

• If your home is inhabitable, check with your insurance company to determine which expenses will be reimbursed

The Associated Press contributed to this report.