The National Hurricane Center released its Friday 2:00 p.m. update on the projected path of Hurricane Florence. The National Hurricane Center advises that Hurricane Florence is moving west at 5 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour.
Based on current forecasts, Beaufort County could see up to 2 inches of rain this weekend with some coastal flooding, especially in low-lying areas. In addition, Beaufort County may experience some winds from the storm below that of tropical storm force—less than 39 miles per hour.
There are rip current and small craft advisories for Beaufort County, boaters and beach-goers are urged to exercise extreme caution. According to the National Weather Service, “everyone should remain out of the water due to life threatening rip currents" and "during a Small Craft Advisory, inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigating in hazardous conditions". The next 36 to 48 hours will be the most critical for Beaufort County.
We remain prepared with resources in the event Beaufort County experiences more severe impacts from Hurricane Florence than current forecasts indicate. A decision to scale back storm related resources will be made at the appropriate time and when Beaufort County is comfortably out of danger. The Beaufort County School District just announced that public schools will re-open on Monday, September 17th as will county offices.