GATESVILLE – Despite a projected increase in tropical storm force winds later today, there are no mandatory evacuations for Gates County residents.

However, those who may feel unsafe in their homes, especially ones that are in flood-prone areas or are of substandard condition, can take advantage of a storm shelter than opens at 12 noon today (Thursday). That shelter is located at Gates County High School, located at 88 US Hwy 158.

Residents who anticipate evacuating to a shelter should gather their personal items to include identification, food, water, bedding, medication, comfort and personal hygiene items, infant supplies (formula, bottles, disposable diapers and pacifier), and important personal documents. Items that will not be allowed at the shelter include alcoholic beverages and weapons of any type.

Gates County High School is designated as a pet friendly shelter. Those seeking shelter at this location will be able to bring their pets; however, the pets will not be allowed to roam freely throughout the school. There will be a designated location where the pets will be housed. If bringing a pet you are responsible for providing shot records, food, bedding and a kennel if possible.

According to Gates County Emergency Management, winds from Hurricane Florence may include gusts of between 45-to-50 mph in the county. Florence is still expected to make landfall later today or early Friday in the Wilmington area and then turn south.

Rainfall in the Gates County area is projected at between 3-to-4 inches.

Please continue to monitor the Gates County website and the county’s Emergency Management Facebook page for updates.