Frequently Asked Questions

Text: To receive regular updates on potential storm impacts on Orange County, please text OCStorm to 888-777. Standard text messaging rates apply. This service will be active throughout the year and will provide storm-related information for all kinds of storms that may impact Orange County, including winter storms, hurricanes and other severe weather events.

Twitter: Follow us on Twitter at @OCNCGOV for the latest updates and news from your county.

OCAlerts: Sign up for our emergency notification system (www.orangecountync.gov/OCAlerts) that allows you to select how you want to be notified -- text messages, email or phone calls. The service is free.

Please do not call 9-1-1 with non-emergency questions.

The Special Needs Registry is a database containing information about individuals in Orange County with special needs who may require assistance in the event of a disaster. During a disaster, those on the registry will be called and given information about how to prepare for or respond to the disaster, given information regarding facilities or shelters, and to check on their well-being.  The information may also be used to assist emergency personnel and volunteers in providing assistance.

Participation in the Special Needs registry is voluntary. Individuals on the registry decide whether to accept assistance and/or remain responsible for themselves in the event of an emergency.

You register through the Orange County Department of Social Services or self-identify by registering for OC Alerts at www.ocalertsnc.com.

For downed trees and other debris in a roadway, assure that you are in a safe location and call 9-1-1. 

• If you or your family are in danger, contact 9-1-1.
• If the damage is minimal, or you are in no danger, contact your insurance company and/or locate a private debris removal company.
• If the tree is in the roadway, call 9-1-1.

According to FoodSafety.gov, the following guidelines apply:

• Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
• A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if the door is kept closed.
• A full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half-full). If your freezer is not full, group packages so they form an “igloo” to protect each other.
• Place meat and poultry to one side or on a tray so if they begin thawing their juices will not get on other foods.
• If the power is going to be out for a long time, buy dry or block ice to keep the refrigerator as cold as possible. Fifty pounds of dry ice should keep a fully-stocked 18-cubic-feet freezer cold for two days.

N.C. State University and N.C. A&T State University Cooperative Extension have created a great resource with tips on what to do with your food when the power goes out for an extended period.

Orange County Emergency Services has a new online tool for residents to report damage related to Hurricane Florence. The damage assessment form is linked with the county's GIS software, enabling Emergency Services to map reported incidents.

If you live in Chapel Hill, use the town's online reporting tool.