A graphic segment aired on US television has highlighted the stark danger posed by Hurricane Florence, which is making landfall on the coast of North Carolina.
Metereologist Erika Navarro guided viewers on the Weather Channel through a simulation of what could happen as the hurricane tracks inland, warning them to follow the instructions of authorities.
Ms Navarro explains that water levels are already beginning to pick up over the roads, and there are potential 'storm surges' of up to two metres on the coastline and almost three metres in areas that border rivers.
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Computerised graphics show water levels rapidly rising up to two metres on the streets, over the head of the presenter, causing cars to float behind her.
She warns that dangerous chemicals and power lines could be hidden in the floodwaters, as the water levels continue to rise to 2.7m.
"This water is through the first floor of your home, into the second...This is an extremely life-threatening and dangerous situation," she explains.
"If you find yourself here, please get out. If you're told to go you need to go. Listen to those local officials and make sure you heed the advice if told to do so."
Columbia Climate and Society lecturer Brian L Kahn praised the TV segment on Twitter, saying it's "an amazing and sobering use of technology to show what hurricanes like Florence can do."
https://twitter.com/blkahn/status/1040306476273868800
NIWA forecaster Chris Brandolino told the AM Show the hurricane is one of the worst to hit the state in a generation and will have "devastating and catastrophic impacts".
Newshub.
