Florence flooding live coverage: Storm 'has never been more dangerous than it is right now'
WTVD-AP
Florence, now a tropical depression, is still a dangerous storm and is dumping excessive rainfall on wide areas of North Carolina and South Carolina, causing historic flooding.
THE LATEST
Florence flooding: The latest on Tropical Depression Florence with Big Weather
In total, 15 storm-related deaths have been confirmed. Ten were in North Carolina and five were in South Carolina.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper is visiting the Friday Center in Chapel Hill, which is functioning as a shelter, on Sunday afternoon.
Officials also say the storm could kick up a few tornadoes on its trek across the region.
The storm has reached the height of danger, Governor Roy Cooper said in a press conference on Sunday afternoon.
"The storm has never been more dangerous than it is right now," he said.
TRACKING FLORENCE
Florence was downgraded to a tropical depression on Sunday.
Here's the latest radar showing where the storm is now.
On Friday, after blowing ashore with 90 mph winds, Florence practically parked itself over land all day long and poured on the rain. With rivers rising toward record levels, thousands of people were ordered evacuated as the storm began to bring in historic flooding.
PHOTOS: Hurricane Florence, now a tropical depression, dumps days of rain on North Carolina
Authorities evacuate a family from rising waters caused by Florence, now a tropical storm, on Saturday in New Bern. (Allen G. Breed)
FLOODING
The flooding after Hurricane Florence has reached historic levels in more than one part of the state. Morehead City broke the official record for most rainfall ever recorded in the state from a tropical system when 25.77 inches were recorded there. Wilmington, meanwhile, has already surpassed its annual rainfall total with three months to go.
Rivers have also reached historic levels. The Cape Fear River is expected to crest above levels brought by Hurricane Matthew.
Authorities advise not to go into the floodwaters as they could pose dangers, such as snakes, and health risks, such as sewage water.
RESCUE EFFORTS
A massive rescue effort is still underway. Crews said the conditions may only get worse as rain continues to fall.
The National Guard shared these photos of rescues, including near Beulaville, NC, on their Facebook page. (National Guard/Facebook)
First responders from local, state and federal agencies are helping those stranded by high water, and many more are standing by to be deployed.
ABC11's Julie Wilson accompanied one team of volunteers and helped save a dog. Other cats and dogs were among the rescued.
HELPUL INFORMATION: EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT FLORENCE
Emergency information
911 or 211: Which should you call?
Stay up-to-date on power outages.
See the list of 120 shelters for Florence evacuees.
See the latest road closures around the state.
Around the Triangle
Several local school districts and universities are closed Monday and Tuesday. See the list.
Here's what you need to know about trash pick-ups, curfews, bus schedules and more.
For victims
Find out how to get emergency federal assistance.
Here's how to get mental health support after the storm.
How to help
Find out how you can help the victims.
See how Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina is helping Florence evacuees.
The Cary VFW has been designated as a relief distribution point.
Finally, find full coverage of the storm here.