Carter County hurricane guide¶
Elizabethton/Carter County Emergency Management coordinates emergency planning for the county. Carter County is inland, so its storm risks come from flooding, flash flooding, and heavy rain, including from the remains of tropical storms. The county's page says to call 911 for all emergencies, and that its office line is answered by a message machine when staff are out. The county has not published flood or shelter guidance on its EMA page, so use its alerts app and call the office for current instructions.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Every phone number and web address on this page was checked against official sources on that date. Details can change, especially during a storm. Always follow instructions from Elizabethton/Carter County Emergency Management. In a life threatening emergency, call 911.
What to know in Carter County¶
- The county's EMA page says: for all emergencies call 911, and if it is not an emergency, leave a message on the office answering machine at 423-542-1888 and someone will return your call.
Emergency and information numbers¶
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency | 911 | Police, fire, and ambulance. Call only when someone's life or property is in danger. |
| Emergency management office | 423-542-1888 | Office line. Not for emergencies. |
| Sheriff's Office non-emergency | 423-542-1845 | For police matters that are not emergencies. |
Official alerts and information¶
- Carter County Emergency Alerts (EMA app): The county's emergency alerts app. The county's home page asks residents to download its EMA app. Install it before a storm. Website.
Evacuation centers¶
Open only when announced
Evacuation centers open only when officials announce them, and not every center opens for every storm. Check the official list of open centers before you leave home. Bring your own bedding, food, water, and medicines.
Carter County has not published a shelter list on its EMA page. If a storm or flood forces people from their homes, watch the county emergency alerts app and call the EMA office at 423-542-1888 for current instructions. Never go to a site until it is announced as open.
Cities and towns¶
Each city has its own services and some have their own alerts. The county's evacuation zones, evacuation centers, and emergency alerts cover everyone, in every city and in unincorporated areas.
- City of Elizabethton. Official website
- City of Johnson City. Official website
- Town of Watauga
Related guides¶
- Should I evacuate?
- What to expect at a hurricane shelter
- Hurricane supply list
- After a hurricane: the first 24 hours
- Insurance claims and disaster aid
Sources¶
Checked on October 9, 2026. If a number or address here is wrong, please tell us at Keith@KMyers.me.