For families right here in New Bern and across Craven County, hurricane season is never a distant concern — it’s a reality we live with every year. Sitting at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern knows better than most what rising water and howling winds can do to a community. That’s why now — before a storm is named and panic sets in — is the time to know your evacuation zone, map your route, and make your plan. This critical community update is brought to you by SupportNewBern.com, your trusted local resource for Eastern NC residents.
For families right here in New Bern and across Craven County, hurricane season is never a distant concern — it’s a reality we live with every year. Sitting at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern knows better than most what rising water and howling winds can do to a community. That’s why now — before a storm is named and panic sets in — is the time to know your evacuation zone, map your route, and make your plan. This critical community update is brought to you by SupportNewBern.com, your trusted local resource for Eastern NC residents.
Know Your Zone — Before You Need To
North Carolina launched its Know Your Zone evacuation tool in July 2020, and it remains one of the most important resources available to Eastern NC residents. The tool identifies areas across our region that are most vulnerable to hurricanes, tropical storms, and hazardous flooding — including the low-lying neighborhoods most at risk from storm surge. Zones are labeled A through E, with Zone A being the most flood-prone and Zone E the least. Zones are precise down to individual neighborhood streets, so there is no guessing. Look yours up now at the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management website.
Eastern NC Evacuation Routes to Know
The NC Department of Transportation has identified primary coastal evacuation routes designed to move people safely inland before a major storm. Key corridors include Interstate 40, Interstate 587, US Highway 70, and Interstate 95. For New Bern residents, Highway 70 is a familiar lifeline that connects us westward toward Kinston and beyond. A full map of Coastal Evacuation Routes to I-95 is available through the NCDOT.
Evacuation routes are marked with circular blue signs reading “Evacuation Route.” Stay on these marked paths — law enforcement and emergency responders prioritize them first, and they lead directly to areas where food, water, and shelter are available. Do not detour onto unfamiliar back roads.
For real-time road conditions and closures, call 511 toll-free or visit the NC Department of Transportation’s online Travel Information System. Message boards along evacuation routes will also post live updates.
Planning Your Evacuation — Do This Now, Not When the Storm Hits
When a storm is forecast, you will not have the luxury of time. That’s why your plan needs to be ready before the season starts. Map your route from your home address. Know how long it will take to pick up every member of your household. Notify family members — both local and out of the area — where you plan to go. Prepare a three-day survival kit and keep it somewhere easy to grab on short notice.
If you live in a mobile or manufactured home, have a solid plan to move to a sturdier structure. No mobile home is safe in hurricane-force winds — this is not a risk worth taking.
If you need to use a public shelter, be aware that most shelters do not accept pets. Make arrangements for your animals now so you are not faced with that impossible decision during a storm.
Before You Leave — A Quick Checklist
When the order comes to evacuate, move quickly and do the following before you go: Turn off your gas, water, and electricity, and lock your doors. Fill your gas tank — stations along evacuation routes will run out fast. Pack blankets, first-aid supplies, prescription medications, several days of clothing, and essential personal documents. Bring water and nonperishable food for the road, since restaurants and gas stations may be closed. Do not travel farther than necessary, and return home only after local authorities confirm it is safe.
If You Choose to Stay
Sheltering in place is a serious decision that requires serious preparation. Make sure your home has storm shutters for all windows and openings, and know ahead of time how long it will take to put them up. Stock up on food, water, and any special medical supplies your household needs. Notify an out-of-area contact that you are staying so someone knows your location and status. And remember — if conditions deteriorate rapidly, be prepared to act.
Stay Connected to Your New Bern Community
When storms pass and recovery begins, it’s our local businesses and neighbors who show up first. Before, during, and after hurricane season, we encourage every resident of Craven County to shop local, hire local, and invest in the people and places that make New Bern home. Find local businesses, job listings, and community resources at SupportNewBern.com — because a strong community is the best preparation of all.
Original reporting via WRAL.com Weather. Read the original article here.
