Cumberland County prepares for hurricanes and floods with evacuation plan updates

Cumberland County officials are gearing up for potential emergencies as discussions about hurricane preparedness took center stage at the Board of Commissioners meeting on April 21, 2025. The focus was on enhancing evacuation plans, particularly for Southwest Cumberland County, to ensure residents can safely navigate through severe weather events.

Commissioner Sherry Watts emphasized the need for readiness, stating, “We need to look at our evacuation plans for Southwest Cumberland County so we can get through these hurricanes and floods.” She highlighted recent developments in drainage systems on Sandhill Road and Chickenfoot Road, which are crucial for improving evacuation routes that were previously inadequate.

Watts pointed out that Route 87 remains a challenge due to its low elevation, complicating access during emergencies. She noted that while there are still issues in the northern sector of Spring Lake, alternative routes via Highway 95 could help circumvent some of these problems.

The meeting underscored the importance of community preparedness and collaboration, with Watts urging everyone to stay informed and ready to assist one another during crises. As the county braces for the upcoming hurricane season, officials are committed to ensuring that evacuation plans are robust and effective, prioritizing the safety of all residents.