The High-Country is preparing itself for the remnants of Hurricane Ian coming our way

High winds and rain estimations have gone down slightly as the storm heads a our way, though the flood watch and wind advisory are still in affect.

As we reported earlier Governor Cooper declared a state of emergency and has begun to direct resources to rescue services as well as agricultural organizations. State transportation officials are prepared for Ian and are urging people to avoid any unnecessary travel starting Friday and going into the weekend. More than 2,200 N.C. Department of Transportation employees in all 100 counties have prepared equipment for possible clearing efforts, repairs and pipe replacements after the storm passes. NCDOT has readied 374 backhoes and loaders, 223 motor graders, 1,436 chainsaws and 1,371 trucks so they can clear downed trees and other debris from roads as soon as possible. Transportation crews have also ensured dozens of portable generators are ready, and that traffic services offices are staging message boards. Also, crews have loaded emergency trailers with barricades, high water signs and road closure signs so they can be deployed as needed.