Lee County Emergency Services News and Information

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State and Local Authorities Recommend Evacuation near Harris Nuclear Plant

At 1:28 p.m. today, April 30, State and local authorities recommended the evacuation of people living or working in subzones I and J of the Harris Nuclear Plant’s Emergency Planning Zone. These zones are in a southwest direction from the plant to a distance of about 10 miles. The evacuation is in response to the situation at the Harris Nuclear Plant located in southwest Wake County.
The governor made his recommendation in concurrence with officials in Lee County, parts of which comprise the plant's 10 mile Emergency Planning Zone. A primary reason for the decision is the area's weather forecast that calls for a change in wind speed and direction later today. Another factor is the potential for worsening conditions inside the Harris Plant.
All evacuees MUST go to a designated reception center and congregate care facility to register, even if they plan to stay elsewhere. Registration is necessary to ensure everyone is accounted for and so that evacuees can be contacted in the event of an emergency or when safe re-entry into the area is authorized. It is also important for these individuals to be monitored at the reception center for any radiation.
Evacuees will be directed to the reception center and congregate care facilities along approved evacuation routes, which are designated in the Safety Information Brochure which is distributed to all residences and large businesses in the plant’s 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone. Blue and White road signs also indicate evacuation routes.
Before evacuating homes and businesses, individuals should:

1. Close all windows and doors.

2. Turn off fans, air conditioners and forced air heaters.

3. Shelter and provide food and water for livestock.

Bedding may not be supplied at evacuation shelters; therefore, it is necessary to bring sleeping bags, cots or other bedding supplies. Evacuees should also bring necessary clothing, toilet articles and medicines and plan to remain away from home for up to two weeks. Food will be provided. Evacuees may bring other items they may need such as playing cards, books or toys for children.
Property and belongings will be safeguarded by law enforcement officials who will not allow unauthorized persons into the evacuated area.
Radiation levels will be monitored continually by federal, state and local authorities, as well as by Duke Energy. Evacuees will be notified by public officials or through the news media when it is safe to return to their homes.
People may call the Joint Information Center at (919) 546-5950 for more information

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THIS IS AN EXERCISE. THIS IS ONLY AN EXERCISE