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North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) urges strict coordination to ensure safety and efficiency.

As emergency response efforts continue in the wake of ongoing crises in western North Carolina, officials have issued an urgent plea to those planning to transport supplies into the affected region. With conditions changing rapidly, the North Carolina Emergency Management Business Emergency Operations Center (NCEM-BEOC) is emphasizing the importance of coordination to maintain critical supply lines and ensure the safety of those on the ground.

Coordinating Movements: A Must

Individuals or organizations planning to move resources, people, or equipment into western North Carolina must coordinate with the NCEM-BEOC. Failure to do so may result in teams being turned away at checkpoints as access to the region remains tightly controlled.

“Your safety is our top priority,” said an NCEM official. “We ask everyone to work through the proper channels to keep roads open for emergency services and prioritized supply shipments.”

All supply movements must be authorized, and the BEOC will provide safe routes and escorts as necessary. Anyone self-deploying without prior approval risks contributing to traffic congestion, delaying critical services, or being denied access to the area.

Details for Requesting Access

Those needing to deliver supplies are asked to email the NCEM-BEOC at BEOC@nedps.gov with the subject line “Logistics Support.” Requests should include:

• Details of what is being moved
• Justification for special access
• Timelines for the movement
• Departure and destination locations
• Expected arrival times at checkpoints near the border of western North Carolina
• Traffic Restrictions

Until further notice, roads west of Hickory, NC, are closed to all non-emergency traffic. Those planning smaller-scale supply deliveries from local businesses, churches, or volunteer organizations are encouraged to collaborate with larger organizations or county operations to reduce the amount of traffic headed to the area.

NCEM urges anyone involved in the relief efforts to remain patient and focused on coordinated responses, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most without unnecessary complications.