Heavy rain from Debby could continue to cause problems for days, NC officials warn
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- With Debby pushing out, North Carolina leaders are turning their attention to clean up, while still warning people to be careful when venturing out of their homes.
The storm is also being blamed for two deaths in the state. Gov. Roy Cooper said Friday the storm killed one man in Wilson County and the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office reports 78-year-old woman died after a tree fell on her home.
"We are thinking about them and their families. I was there in Wilson County yesterday and a number of people who knew the gentleman who lost his life. And that's a tough time for people for sure," Cooper said.
Cooper also shared updates to damage sustained by Springfield Middle School in Lucama.
"They're going to get an assessment and inspection of the building. This tornado was very powerful and it destroyed a lot of the sixth and seventh grade classes, but left the eighth grade classes untouched. I think there's a thought of maybe trying to have some of the classes open in the school. I don't know whether that's going to be possible or not. They obviously are getting in touch with the Department of Public Instruction. They have insurance for this. We will work with them about any other streams of funding that would be available to them. The superintendent was very determined that he wanted to make sure that these children got to school and got their education," Cooper said.
While Debby has moved out of the area, state officials said the effects of the storm could linger over the next couple days. That includes rain as well as river flooding.
Officials are closely tracking flood gauges and levels along river basins, saying the threat of inland flooding can remain days after tropical systems leave a region.
"Our priority is to protect lives as we manage the impact of this storm," Cooper said. "Make no mistake this stubborn storm and its effects are not over."
SEE ALSO | Thousands still without power in central NC; Debby moves toward northeast
North Carolina Emergency Management Director William Ray talked Friday about the state's ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
He said his team was still in an active response mode but looking to shift their future efforts into recovery when possible.
In addition to the work being done by state officials, Ray said it was important for people to check on their loved ones and neighbors.
"Together taking care of our families, neighbors and our communities, we are stronger and make for more resilient communities," Ray said.
NC Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins said the state has around 180 road closures, including 10 primary routes. That number is down from a peak of about 290.
Hopkins said Robeson, Chatham and Sampson counties had the highest volume of road closures related to Debby.
"I implore citizens to stay aware, far too many people are killed when they try to drive through the flooded roads after storms have passed. Please don't let your guard down," Hopkins said.
Ferry service has resumed, with Hopkins adding rail service is set to continue as normal Friday afternoon, though passengers are encouraged to double-check prior to booking.
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Attorney General Josh Stein spoke Friday, warning people to take precaution when hiring someone to help take care of storm clean up or repairs.
"Even as the threat of Debby begins to recede, we must remain vigilant about other risks. Scammers who try to take advantage of hard-working North Carolinians who are repairing and trying to get their lives back in order after the storm," Stein said.
Click here for tips from the Federal Communications Commission to help you avoid scams after storms.
Stein also said his office received 13 complaints of price gouging, which are now being investigated.
