Raleigh breaking news and weather, Raleigh North Carolina news today, WRAL 7-day forecasts, NC lottery updates. WRAL news in Raleigh, NC.

WRAL.com

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Hurricane Milton hurled rain, tornadoes and tropical storm-force winds at the U.S. coast Wednesday on the storm's steady, potentially catastrophic march toward Florida, where officials issued a final plea to residents to evacuate or face grim odds of survival.

Dire warnings to flee as Hurricane Milton begins to lash Florida: 'This is your last chance'

It within a few hours. Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall on the west coast of Florida, the western coast of Florida already, we're seeing impacts of the storm including significant winds and heavy rain. And there's also been frequent and widespread tornado warnings throughout the day and they're continued and expected to expand as milt moves over land, including a few that have already touched down in south in South Florida. Currently milt is a category three with wind speeds up to 100 and 20 MPH, but no one should be confused. It's still expected to be one of the most and worst destructive hurricanes that hit Florida in over a century. You know, both the heads of the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service made it very clear and conversations I've had with them earlier today. No one still carries incredible destructiveness can wipe out communities can cause loss of life. Storm surge is still expected to be up to 13 ft. So I urge everyone in hurricane Milton's path to listen to local officials and follow all the safety instructions they give at this point. Evacuation is probably difficult. So I encourage people to look for safer shoulder. Sometimes moving just a few miles can mean the difference between life and death. We've already approved emergency declarations for Florida. We have thousands of federal personnel on the ground. We stage and are ready to go. We have 20 million meals, 40 million L of water. In my direction, the Secretary of Defense Austin has prepositioned search and rescue teams, helicopters and high water, high high water vehicles as close to the storm as possible. So they're ready to conduct life saving missions. And the administrators of the administrator of FEMA will be on site tonight in Florida in the state's emerge in the state's emergency operation. Both administrator Chriswell and I will be in constant contact with state and local officials in the hours ahead. Once this storm hits, we're gonna work with state officials to clear debris, restore power and do it as fast as possible. The Army Corps of Engineers will pump out water and decrease flooding. We've already directed the Department of Defense to be ready to provide active duty service members to support Florida after the storm after the storm surge. If Governor De Sanchez requests the help which I expect he might just like we did in North Carolina. I have searched over 1000 us Coast Guard personnel to perform search and rescue missions and reopen the port of Tampa as soon as possible. No, I want to reiterate a point. I made clear earlier today to the folks who have been impacted by the land, this impact and will be now impacted by milk. Over the last few weeks, there's been a reckless and irresponsible and relentless promotion of disinformation and outright lies about what's going on. It's undermining confidence of the people in Florida and incredible rescue and recovery work that has been undertaken. Literally, there are, there are thousands of fellow Americans who are putting their lives at stake and putting on the line to do the dangerous work that needs to be done now. And it's harmful to those who most need the help. Quite frankly, these lies are un American and there is simply no place for them. Not now. Not ever. Former president Trump has led this onslaught of lies. Assertions have been made that property is being confiscated. It's simply not true. They're saying people impacted by these storms have received $750 in cash and no more. That is simply not true either. They're saying the money needed for these crises are being diverted to migrants. What the hell the heck are they talking about? Stop it. It's outrageous. It's just not true. Now, the claims are getting even more bizarre. Marjorie Taylor Green, the congresswoman from Georgia is now saying the federal government is literally controlling the weather, we're controlling the weather. It's beyond ridiculous. It's so stupid. It's got to stop. Let me close you this, it's difficult these days and weeks have been. We've seen incredible courage by so many of our fellow Americans. I wanna thank all the first responders for running toward danger instead of away from it for saving lives and making a difference. Fema personnel risking their lives, climbing on hillsides to reach people, cut off by Helena Army National Guard flying through the gill wind force. That, uh, it's amazing what they're doing. Firefighters lifting, collapsed wood and metal in an attempt to get sea for survivors. Any survivors under the debris, risking their lives. Coast Guard teams and telling from helicopters to rescue people and risking their own lives. There are countless friends and neighbors who have sacrificed for the greater good volunteers leaving their own families behind to help, search for someone else's family, fellow Americans looking out for one another. That's America at its very best. That's who we are. So my final message tonight is to the people of Florida and all the impact of States. We've got your back, we've got your back and con and I will be there for as long as it takes to rescue, recover and rebuild. May God bless you all and may God protect those serving in the eye of the storm on behalf of our nation. Thank you. Why do you think Trump is spreading misinformation? Why do you think Trump is Trump is spreading misinformation to the, do you have a comment, sir? Why do you think Trump is? Why do you think Trump is spreading misinformation. I don't know. II, I simply don't know, you can speculate but IIII, I just find it. II, I, I've used the phrase more than I've used it ever in my whole career. Un American. It's un American. It's not who the hell we are. What are they talking about, sir? Have you considered calling him and asking to stop a minute. The stock study? Mr President does Governor desantis need to take Vice president? Uh Harris's calls? All I can tell you is I'm talking to Governor de Santa. He's been very gracious. He's thanked me for all we've done. He knows what we're doing. And uh, and I think that's important. Can you say that Florida has everything it needs for the storm. How was your call with Netanyahu today? We didn't talk about the story. Thank you. Yes. Uh you, I, yeah.

President Biden discusses preps as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida

Hurricane-Milton_Weather__30086

'It was hurtful': NC first responder reacts to false Helene information on social media

Hurricane_Helene_16261

Raleigh man worries about family in Tampa as Hurricane Milton approaches 

John Goode and his son Derrick Goode in an old family photo

5 On Your Side: Vacationers getting mixed messages about traveling to NC mountains

EARNHARDT-5 Blue Ridge Mountains

Hurricane season 2024: Milton approaches Florida as Category 3 hurricane

5 p.m. update Wednesday on Hurricane Milton

NC National Guard grounds crew after helicopter scatters Hurricane Helene relief supplies

NC National Guard 

Appalachian State University plans to resume classes following Hurricane Helene damage

Appalachian State University

WRAL News+

WRAL News+ Live Thumbnail

WRAL WeatherCenter Forecast

As Hurricane Milton approaches landfall, crews from North Carolina are preparing to head to Florida to assist in hurricane recovery. Some of those crews come from Rocky Mount's Department of Energy Resources.

Rocky Mount utility crews transition emergency response from western North Carolina to Florida

Rocky Mount power outage repair crew

Alison Wisley, her fiancÃ© and two children, aged 9 and 7, died in the flooding from Tropical Storm Helene.

Western NC mother, two young sons & fiancÃ© die after being swept away by Helene's floodwaters while trying to evacuate

Knox, Alison, Felix and Lucas 

Musicians with North Carolina connections will collaborate to celebrate the Tar Heel State and raise money for hurricane relief. The Concert for Carolina takes place Oct. 26 at Bank of America Stadium.


Concert for Carolina: Sheryl Crow, Luke Combs, Eric Church, James Taylor to perform Oct. 26

Concert for Carolina Oct. 26, 2024

Wednesday is shaping up to be another great day, with mostly sunny skies and a high in the mid 70s.

Wednesday night forecast: Cool temperatures with lows in the upper 40s to lower 50s

Forecast of rainfall over the next 7 days

After more than a year of debate, the Cumberland County Commissioners have voted to build a new E.E. Smith High School in Fayetteville.

New E.E. Smith High School to be built, but location still up in the air after Fort Liberty site rejection

New E.E Smith High School will not be built on Fort Liberty  

After the NCHSAA Board of Directors met this week, the association announced plans to change the fall sports calendar to allow schools affected by Hurricane Helen an opportunity to make up missed games.

NCHSAA will extend fall sports season after Hurricane Helene

Football: Watauga vs. A.C. Reynolds (September 13, 2024)

"They call it Craigtown because the Craigs were there," Runion said. "It's kind of a country thing because, but they're just pillars of the community."

'Pillars of the community': Helene kills 11 people from one Buncombe County family 

Helene kills 11 people from one Buncombe County family 

Kali White was staying in an Airbnb in Asheville when Hurricane Helene brought devastating flooding to western North Carolina.



Maid of honor in Asheville for bachelorette party survives flooding 

The $273 million disaster relief bill, approved unanimously, is likely the first of several spending plans to rebuild ravaged communities in western North Carolina.

NC lawmakers approve millions in Hurricane Helene disaster aid for western counties

Tropical_Weather_97689

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024 -- As the General Assembly returns to decide disaster relief, it has the ability to uphold its constitutional responsibility by not sending additional monies to support private school vouchers and instead provide the needed funding to support and rebuild our public schools that serve communities without hesitation.

COLUMN: Public schools are beacons of hope through crisis and devastation

Damage from flooding at Pisgah High School

View WRAL's latest top news

MIX 101.5 WRAL-FM

95.7 That Station

99.9 The Fan

Hurricane Helene is now blamed for the deaths of 230 people across the south, and more than 90,000 people remain without power.

Tracking Helene's impact: Search county-by-county death toll, power outages in NC

Climate_Deadlier_Hurricanes_24896

The 2024 North Carolina State Fair is a beloved annual tradition, offering something for everyone. From thrilling rides and delicious food to educational exhibits and live entertainment, there's always something to enjoy.

Your ultimate guide to the 2024 North Carolina State Fair  

NC State Fair Sky Glazer

Interactive hurricane tracker

Tracking the Tropics

The Amazon Prime Big Deal Days event is LIVE NOW with excellent deals on tablets, Fire TV Sticks, AirPods Pro 2, MacBooks, Bissell Little Green Carpet Cleaner, Shark Vacuums, Instant Pot, Hey Dude Shoes, Barbie Dreamhouse, LifeStraw, Levi's, toys, electronics, home security, kitchen, clothing, Buy 2 Get 1 Free movies, books & music and much more! Read on for the long list of top offers!  

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days event is live now

Amazon boxes

Hurricane Helene ravaged mountain towns and cities in western North Carolina, leaving many people trapped after roads were destroyed and washed away. With no roads, no power and (seemingly) no way to reach these communities, the Mountain Mule Packers stepped up. 

Where humans can't, mules can: How mules are saving the day by reaching western NC's most inaccessible communities

Mountain Mule Packers 

After a hurricane hits, it can be overwhelming to try and figure out everything you need to do. Here's a list of resources to help you.

How to get help after the storm

Hurricane_Helene_59110

Don't Miss It

Hurricane Helene destroyed Kayla Ward's home in Tennessee. A woman found some of her family's photos eight miles away.

Photo album and blanket found 8 miles from Tennessee home destroyed by Helene

New E.E Smith High School will not be built on Fort Liberty 

11 members of Buncombe Co. family killed in landslide

NC lawmakers consider $273 million relief bill for Helene recovery

First responders returning from western NC combat disinformation about response

Raleigh man concern for family that is staying in Tampa during Hurricane Milton 

Video Central

WRAL 6am News | October 9

6am Newscast Static

WRAL 9am News | October 9

9am Newscast Static

WRAL Noon News | October 9

12pm Newscast Static

WRAL 4pm News | October 9

4pm Newscast Static

WRAL 6pm News | October 8

6pm Newscast Static

WRAL 10pm News | October 8

10pm Newscast Static

Tennessee family's photos found 8 miles away after Helene destroys their home

Local News

Florida hospitals brace for Milton: How NC hospitals prepare for natural disasters 

Woman charged with setting fire at Elizabeth City church

NC State's 'Purple Day' honors survivors and victims of domestic violence with 'Silent Witness' exhibit

Harris Nuclear Plant in New Hill tests emergency sirens Wednesday

Social Security's scheduled cost of living increase 'won't make a dent' for some retirees

Nation/World

Israeli defense minister warns an attack on Iran would be 'lethal' and 'surprising'

US considers asking court to break up Google as it weighs remedies in the antitrust case

The presidential campaigns have made over 200 visits but speak to just a fraction of American voters

Nobel Prize in chemistry honors 3 scientists who used AI to design proteins - life's building blocks

Catawba's own Christina Eagle has captured a coveted spot on Team Snoop Dogg on "The Voice" after a standout performance of Lainey Wilson's "Wildflowers and Wild Horses."


Catawba singer Christina Eagle joins Team Snoop Dogg on 'The Voice'

Beech Mountain Ski Resort announces opening date for 2024-25 ski season

On Dec. 17, 2022, skiers and snowboarders go down the slopes at Beech Mountain.

NC benefit concerts planned to aid in Hurricane Helene recovery

Mount Moriah At the Cat's Cradle

Closed for renovations: NC Museum of History working to retell the state's story

Bicentennial Plaza 

First Char-Grill is up for sale again

Generic photo of Char-Grill located on Hillsborough Street in downtown Raleigh. 

Out & About

Fact check: Is government seizing North Carolina lithium after Helene?

Politifact

Fact check: No, Democrats didn't withhold aid to right-leaning NC counties after Helene

Fact check: No, FEMA and other Helene responders aren't 'confiscating' supplies

Fact-checking 5 misleading claims about Helene relief efforts

Fact-checking Vance and Walz claims from vice presidential debate

State lawmakers plan to unveil $273-million Helene relief package Wednesday

NC Capitol

North Carolina sports betting numbers bounce back with big September

Lawmakers ready to okay a quarter-billion dollar relief bill for Helene 

Health care staffing company plans to add high-paying 155 jobs in Raleigh's North Hills

Home insurers argue for a 42% average rate hike in North Carolina

State senate candidate reinstated to assistant principal job after monthlong suspension

Education

Senate candidate suspended with pay from school job as district probes role in breaking up fight

NC superintendent plans more than $100M request to lawmakers for Helene-affected schools

Wake schools looking into Athens Drive reading assignment

Wake schools adopts environmental sustainability policy

CDC investigating potential 'cancer cluster' at NC State after hundreds of people who worked, studied in Poe Hall develop cancer

WRAL In Depth

FEMA fact check

Much of Tropical Storm Fred relief money remains untouched as western NC regroups after Helene

Community event at NC State aims to address, reduce cancer disparities

NC State's 'Zero-Waste Game' tackles stadium waste one bin at a time

'Undervalued': Phillips takes aim at ACC's lack of NCAA bids in men's hoops

WRALSportsFan

ACC Men's Basketball Tipoff: Watch NC State, Duke talk about season, goals

QB struggles and injuries prove to be a tough obstacle for UNC, NC State

ACC Women's Basketball Tipoff: Watch NC State, Duke and UNC discuss season

Saniya Rivers says Wolfpack will 'stay hungry and humble' to follow up Final Four run

The Starting 22: Best players from week 7 of high school football

HighSchoolOT

East-West All-Star Football Game will be played as scheduled despite NCHSAA extending season

Lightning-fast overtime strike sends East Forsyth past Mount Tabor

Football playoff projections for the 2024 postseason

Making sense of the football conferences in Eastern North Carolina entering week 8

After months of WRAL investigations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now working to determine if there is a connection between PCBs in Poe Hall and employee cancer cases.

CDC to investigate potential cancer cluster among Poe Hall workers at NC State

Before hunting for deep discounts on Amazon Prime Day, 5 On Your Side is warning you about the pitfalls to watch out for while you shop and after.

How to guard against scammers this Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day Is Coming Up And Some Clothing And Shoes Are Already On Sale

WRAL anchor/reporter Dan Haggerty answers viewer questions related to the response to Hurricane Helene.

Answering viewer questions about Hurricane Helene aftermath

The North Carolina Board of Elections voted unanimously to give the hardest-hit counties more flexibility in how they conduct the elections.



NC leaders approve flexibility for voters in Helene counties

Before Helene there was Fred - $13 million was promised and few dollars were received by this town. WRAL Investigates North Carolina's long history of hurricane recovery and why funds to help communities rebuild take years to get to those in need.

NC town waiting for millions hit again 3 years later. WRAL Investigates why relief funds take years to help local communities

Many people sent WRAL News questions about the lack of internet and cell service after Hurricane Helene.

Answering viewer questions about lack of internet and cell service from Hurricane Helene

WRAL Specialists

Vacationers getting mixed messages about traveling to NC mountains 

Helene shuts down mines critical to semiconductor production

If Helene causes a chip shortage, it'll be different than COVID

5 On Your Side: Prime Day scams to avoid

5 On Your Side

'We had entire roads collapse:' Road closures make it harder for western NC towns to get supplies, aid

Hope Mills man charged with murdering 25-year-old man after turning himself in

How difficult is it for underage people to get vapes? WRAL goes undercover to find out

Man killed outside barbershop Saturday in Clinton

Investigations

Mike Walden: What does the Fed's rate cut mean?

New AI phone conversation tool QuikTok is getting people talking

Health care staffing company plans to add high-paying 155 jobs in Raleigh

Tom Snyder: AI could be smarter than humans when it comes to health care

WRAL TechWire

Boeing withdraws contract offer after talks with striking workers break down

McDonald's sues top meat packers for allegedly colluding to inflate the price of beef

Small business disaster loan program said to be in danger of running out of funds by end of month

States sue TikTok, claiming its platform is addictive and harms the mental health of children

Business

Powerball

Mega Millions

Cash 5

Lena Tillett welcomes a second son, Zayden

Family

Go Ask Dad: The magic of the mail

Weekend best bets: Fall fun, movies and more

Shifting from parenting to coaching: How and when to make the switch

Adults Night: 'Magic and Monsters' planned at Raleigh museum

SmartShopper

Target Circle Week Top Deals: Instant Pot 6qt Bundle only $59.99 PLUS get a $10 Target Gift Card, Shark Steam Pocket Mop only $69.99, Up to 66% off Reebok clothing 

DWA Consumer Cyclicals Momentum Invesco ETF (NQ: PEZ )

Price and Volume

Chart

Price Performance