16 Fatalities From Matthew, Seven in N.C.

Hurricane Matthew is responsible for at least 16 deaths in the U.S., with seven in North Carolina.

“Our state is facing major destruction and sadly, loss of life,” said Governor McCrory. “This is still an extremely dangerous situation for North Carolina as major rivers are expected to flood in the coming days. As we know from the past, most loss of life often comes after the storm. Our National Guard troops, swift water rescue teams and helo-aquatic rescue teams are on the scene performing rescues.”

McCrory reported at least 887 water rescues within the state of North Carolina Sunday morning.

Gov. McCrory has requested an expedited major disaster declaration that will provide immediate federal assistance to the state. If approved by the president, the declaration would provide grants and assistance without proper insurance and help local governments repaid infrastructure.

“To date, there have been at lease seven storm-related fatalities in North Carolina related to vehicles attempting to pass flooded roads,” said McCrory. “Yesterday (Saturday), one fatality was reported in Sampson County caused by a vehicle that hydroplaned and two in Bladen County due to a submerged vehicle.”

Many areas received over a foot of rainfall prompting flash flood warnings for much of the state. This comes after nearly 15 inches of rain fell a few weeks ago leading to significant flooding in Fayetteville, NC.  This weekend, I-95 has been shut down near Fayetteville– from exit 40 to 55. 

LIVE on #Periscope: Downtown Fayetteville NC – #HurricaneMatthew – If you're in a safe place please stay there. https://t.co/dc9wt0TsHy

— Fayetteville Police (@FayettevillePD) October 9, 2016

More than 80 emergency shelters have opened in central and eastern North Carolina– housing over 4,400 people.

For those needing information, including nearby shelter, housing, and other storm-related details, call 2-1-1.

For WeatherNation: Meteorologist Nick Merianos