Hurricane Florence packing winds up to 150 mph
Fox News senior meteorologist Janice Dean provides update on storm track.
As Hurricane Florence continues to charge toward the U.S. East Coast, particularly the Carolinas, locals are encouraged to take the appropriate steps to prepare for what the National Hurricane Center calls an "extremely dangerous" storm.
With winds up to 140 mph, Florence remains a Category 4 storm Wednesday morning — and weather experts have warned it could become even more powerful as it approaches land. Currently, Florence is on its way to North Carolina, though it's expected to travel through North Carolina and Virginia as well.
From stocking up on important items to hurricane-proofing homes, residents in the path of the hurricane have been getting ready for days. Officials also recommend having emergency contact numbers handy in case anyone becomes trapped in the storm or requires assistance.
HURRICANE FLORENCE'S PATH: TRACK THE STORM HERE
Here are some key numbers to have on hand throughout the storm. In the event of a medical emergency, fire or other serious incident, dial 911 immediately.
North Carolina
North Carolina Emergency Management: 919-825-2500
North Carolina Department of Public Safety: 919-733-2126
North Carolina State Highway Patrol: 919-742-2124
Click here for a list of county emergency coordinators
South Carolina
South Carolina Emergency Management: 803-737-8500
South Carolina Highway Patrol: 803-896-7920
Click here for a list of county emergency coordinators
Virginia
Virginia Department of Emergency Management: 804-897-6500
Virginia Emergency Operations Center: 804-674-2400
Click here for a list of county emergency coordinators
Other contacts
FEMA: 1-800-621-3362
National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721
American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS
