Slow-moving Florence will continue posing problems

A home in Pink Hill with a down tree today. Submitted photo.

Not much is subject to change as Hurricane Florence slowly makes its way across the state.

"What you're seeing outside right now, this is what it's going to be for the next 24 to 36 hours," Lenoir County Public Information Officer Bryan Hanks said. "We're going to keep getting rain, we're going to keep getting wind. The storm is stalling out right now over the coast, and it's moving five to six miles per hour."

Officials are encouraging everyone to stay inside. Kinston City Manager Tony Sears said residents shouldn't go out to assess damage, especially with in-state and out-of-state crews working.

“Right now, we’re having a problem with people who are out, trying to survey damage,” Sears said. “We really don’t need you to do that-- (earlier today) we had an electric crew who was trying to do a repair on Herritage St. and we actually had to send our police officers there to protect the crew."

Kinston Police Department Chief Alonzo Jaynes said protection is the main concern.

"It's important to realize that safety comes first," Jaynes said. "When you approach those intersections, if they're flashing red you come to a complete stop. If they're flashing yellow, you proceed with caution. When the lights are out, always assume that someone's coming in the other direction, so really be mindful of the intersections. Know you're not the only one on the road and if you can, by all means stay inside."

While some areas seem fine, Sears said the public shouldn't let its guard down in any capacity.

"You could have a tree that hasn't fallen yet or a branch that hasn't fallen yet and the next wind gust could be the one to put you in danger," Sears said. "Unless you're checking on a loved one, please stay home, follow us at @KinstonEOC (on Twitter), follow your local TV station, radio station. You don't have to get out in it if it's not necessary."

If there are any issues, contact the City of Kinston's Emergency Operations Center's community line at 252-939-4026.