Florence has been downgraded, but major storm surge expected

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September 16, 2018 - Florence, a onetime hurricane that weakened to a tropical depression by Sunday, dumped up to 40 inches of rain on parts of North Carolina since Thursday, and continued to produce widespread heavy rain over much of North Carolina and eastern South Carolina.

"The storm has never been more dangerous than it is right now," North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper told a news conference. Many rivers "are still rising, and are not expected to crest until later today or tomorrow."

While the port of Charleston, SC has resumed normal business hours, the ports of Wilmington, NC and Morehead, NC will not be operational until Wednesday, September 19.

Additionally, BDP Charleston will resume normal operations tomorrow, September 17. 

Source: CNN

The fierce winds of Hurricane Florence are weakening as it creeps closer to North Carolina but the impact of the immense storm will still be catastrophic for millions of people.

Florence, now a Category 2 hurricane, is forecast to unleash extreme storm surge, possibly historic flooding rains, and damaging winds in the Carolinas beginning Thursday. The storm is expected to slowly move inland, battering much of the US coast for days.

While Florence is no longer considered a major hurricane, its reach has expanded, threatening residents from Georgia to Virginia.

Evacuations for local residents continue as the storm surge has the potential to rise waters up to 13 feet.

There have been over 900 flights canceled along the East Coast in anticipation of the impending storm, and area port closures are in effect.

The safety and well-being of BDP's employees are of the utmost concern. As a reminder, our Charleston, SC, office will be closed until further notice. All customer service issues out of the Charleston, SC office will be monitored. 

Rest assured, BDP International is closely monitoring the status of Hurricane Florence and its potential impact to our customers' supply chains. Should you have any immediate questions or concerns about your cargo, please reach out to your local BDP representative.

Source: CNN