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Hurricane Season
Be Ready, Stay Safe: Hurricane Season
While severe weather can happen at any time, hurricanes are most common in late summer and fall. Though hurricanes typically make landfall along the coast, their impacts can stretch far inland — including into areas like Durham and Western North Carolina. Over the years, storms such as Hurricane Fran (1996), Hurricane Matthew (2016), and most recently, Hurricane Helene (2024) have shown how widespread and disruptive these events can be.
Hurricane Helene (2024) brought significant impacts to Western North Carolina, despite staying offshore and never making landfall in the U.S. As the storm's outer bands swept across the state, the mountainous region experienced prolonged heavy rainfall, leading to flash flooding, swollen rivers, and mudslides in several counties. Steep terrain and already saturated ground conditions made the area especially vulnerable, prompting road closures, emergency evacuations in low-lying areas, and disruptions to power and communication services. Local officials issued multiple flood warnings, and some mountain communities faced temporary isolation due to washed-out roads. Helene served as a clear reminder that even inland areas like Western North Carolina are not immune to the far-reaching effects of hurricanes.
hOW TO STAY SAFE DURING A HURRICANE
Duke LiveSafe and Duke Alert:
For those at Duke, Duke LiveSafe is a free mobile app offering real-time, two-way communication with the Duke University Police Department. During hurricanes or other severe weather events, Duke Alert notifies the community using email, text, phone calls, web updates, sirens, and campus signage.
Tornado Safety Reminders:
• Tornado Watch – Be Prepared: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes.
• Tornado Warning – Take Action: A tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Seek shelter in an interior room away from windows on the lowest floor.
Flood Safety Tip:
In both urban and rural areas — including mountain communities — floodwaters can rise quickly. If you encounter water-covered roads: Turn around… don’t drown.
Whether you're on Duke’s campus or anywhere in North Carolina, Hurricane Helene reminded us that hurricane risks extend far beyond the coast. By staying informed, using emergency tools, and taking severe weather seriously, we can all reduce risks and stay safer during hurricane season.