News Release Date
09-26-2024
Murphy, NC — Mayor Tim Radford has officially declared a state of emergency for the Town of Murphy as Hurricane Helene barrels towards the region. The powerful storm is expected to make landfall around 8 p.m. tonight, with strong winds and dangerous conditions forecast to impact the area shortly after.
"Keeping people safe is our top priority," Mayor Radford said in a statement this afternoon. "We are urging everyone to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and make sure their homes are secured. If you have elderly relatives, neighbors, or others in need of assistance, please check on them regularly, and don’t forget to bring your outside pets and animals indoors before the storm hits."
According to local officials, the town will begin feeling the effects of Helene after midnight, with winds expected to increase to 60-70 mph by daybreak. In preparation for the storm, all public parks, recreational facilities, and public spaces within the city limits, including Konehete Veterans Park, Murphy River Walk, and the Murphy Public Library, will be closed as of 7 p.m. tonight.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to official weather updates and follow all emergency protocols. The National Weather Service has also issued warnings about the potential for widespread power outages, downed trees, and flooding in low-lying areas.
“Even though we are prepared, we must take this storm seriously. These types of winds can cause significant damage to property and pose a real risk to life,” Mayor Radford added. “Please make sure to secure any loose objects outside your home and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary."
Governor Roy Cooper and Cherokee County Commission Chairman Randy Phillips have already declared states of emergency for North Carolina and Cherokee County, respectively. With Hurricane Helene’s path set to affect much of the state, residents across the region are being asked to make final storm preparations.
For those who may need additional support, Cherokee County Emergency Services/Cherokee County Emergency Management is coordinating resources, and the public is encouraged to reach out to local authorities if they or someone they know requires assistance. Additionally, residents are reminded that any violation of the emergency measures, such as accessing closed public spaces, will be treated as a Class 2 Misdemeanor under North Carolina law.
Mayor Radford concluded his statement with a heartfelt plea: “This is the time for us to come together as a community. Let’s make sure no one faces this storm alone. Keep your loved ones close, stay indoors, and reach out to those who may need help.”
The state of emergency remains in effect until further notice. For real-time updates, residents can visit the Town of Murphy's website and subscribe to text/email alerts as well as subscribe to Nixle through Cherokee County Government.
Issued on September 26, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.
"Keeping people safe is our top priority," Mayor Radford said in a statement this afternoon. "We are urging everyone to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and make sure their homes are secured. If you have elderly relatives, neighbors, or others in need of assistance, please check on them regularly, and don’t forget to bring your outside pets and animals indoors before the storm hits."
According to local officials, the town will begin feeling the effects of Helene after midnight, with winds expected to increase to 60-70 mph by daybreak. In preparation for the storm, all public parks, recreational facilities, and public spaces within the city limits, including Konehete Veterans Park, Murphy River Walk, and the Murphy Public Library, will be closed as of 7 p.m. tonight.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to official weather updates and follow all emergency protocols. The National Weather Service has also issued warnings about the potential for widespread power outages, downed trees, and flooding in low-lying areas.
“Even though we are prepared, we must take this storm seriously. These types of winds can cause significant damage to property and pose a real risk to life,” Mayor Radford added. “Please make sure to secure any loose objects outside your home and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary."
Governor Roy Cooper and Cherokee County Commission Chairman Randy Phillips have already declared states of emergency for North Carolina and Cherokee County, respectively. With Hurricane Helene’s path set to affect much of the state, residents across the region are being asked to make final storm preparations.
For those who may need additional support, Cherokee County Emergency Services/Cherokee County Emergency Management is coordinating resources, and the public is encouraged to reach out to local authorities if they or someone they know requires assistance. Additionally, residents are reminded that any violation of the emergency measures, such as accessing closed public spaces, will be treated as a Class 2 Misdemeanor under North Carolina law.
Mayor Radford concluded his statement with a heartfelt plea: “This is the time for us to come together as a community. Let’s make sure no one faces this storm alone. Keep your loved ones close, stay indoors, and reach out to those who may need help.”
The state of emergency remains in effect until further notice. For real-time updates, residents can visit the Town of Murphy's website and subscribe to text/email alerts as well as subscribe to Nixle through Cherokee County Government.
Issued on September 26, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.