JOHNSTON COUNTY
EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT DIVISION
June 1 – November 30
Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, with the highest likelihood for storms in North Carolina occurring from August through October. Johnston County residents should be especially vigilant during this time and take proactive steps to protect their families, homes, and businesses.
Ensure your kit includes:
Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day for 3–7 days)
Non-perishable food
Flashlights and extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications and medical supplies
Important documents (ID, insurance policies, medical records)
Chargers and backup power sources
Pet supplies, if applicable
Download our Johnston County Emergency Kit Checklist.
Johnston County may not be on the coast, but heavy rains, flooding, and wind damage are common from inland hurricanes.
Know the safest route out of your neighborhood
Follow alerts from Johnston County Emergency Services and NCDOT
Never drive through floodwaters — “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”
Sign up for local alerts:
JoCo Alerts: Get emergency notifications straight to your phone or email
Follow Johnston County Emergency Services on Facebook, Instagram and X for updates
Monitor weather from trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and NOAA
Trim trees and remove yard debris
Clean gutters and secure outdoor furniture
Check insurance coverage — including flood insurance (which must be purchased separately and can take 30 days or more to activate)
Protect windows and doors — consider storm shutters or plywood
Decide how you will communicate if power or cell service is lost
Choose a meeting place and emergency contacts
Include plans for pets and those with special medical needs
Practice your plan at least once per year
Stay indoors and away from windows
Use flashlights, not candles
Listen to local officials for shelter and safety information
Avoid using phones unless necessary to preserve battery
Report power outages to your utility company
Avoid flooded areas and downed power lines
Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled
Document property damage for insurance claims
Page last updated: June 3, 2025
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