Hurricane Florence is already pounding the North Carolina coast as a category 2 storm. People farther inland are getting prepared for the weekend\ when the storm is predicted to hit the upstate.

While the impact of Florence might not take as much of a toll on the upstate as the coast, people should still prepare for heavy rains and rough winds around noon Sunday. Four to eight inches of rain is projected for the eastern upstate, which can lead to flash flooding.

In order to be safe during the storms, try to keep out of it. Staying inside and away from the harsh weather is the surest way to get through the storm without any problems. That way, you’re out of the way of anything being blown around or just being battered by the wind and rain.

Having perishable foods on hand is a good way to prevent the need to go out to the grocery store. Driving during rough, rainy weather is always risky, but adding in wind gusts makes it even more dangerous to be out on the roads.

If your house is in a flood-prone area, find somewhere to go that is on higher ground where there is less of a chance of getting caught in a flood. Mobile homes can also be dangerous during a storm of this magnitude, so you might want to consider finding a shelter to go to.

If you’re staying at your home for the storm, bring in any outdoor objects that may blow away and have plenty of batteries for flashlights and candles in case of a power outage. Even though the storm will weaken as it comes farther inland, you should still have an evacuation plan in case the storm is too dangerous to stick out.

Currently, Chapman is operating under a normal schedule, but all afternoon events on campus have been canceled.  Stay updated for more information on the storm and for Monday’s school schedule by following @ChapmanHighSchoolOfficial on Instagram.