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'Time is Running Out' South Carolina Governor Urges People to Leave the Coast

As of 2 p.m. Thursday, the storm was centered about 110 miles (180 kilometers) east-southeast of Wilmington, North Carolina, and about 165 miles (270 kilometers) east of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

(AP, WLTX) - Officials say Hurricane Florence could bring not only flooding but also landslides to South Carolina.

The National Weather Service is forecasting "significant" river flooding, especially in the northeastern portion of the state. That same area experienced dangerous flooding after Hurricane Matthew in 2016.

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Gov. Henry McMaster told reporters Thursday that up to 7 inches of rain in the state's northwestern mountains could mean landslides and dangerous conditions.

South Carolina officials say more than 400,000 people have evacuated the state's coast and more than 4,000 people have taken refuge in shelters as Hurricane Florence approaches.

"If you have not left now, you need to leave," McMaster said. "Time is Running Out."

FORECAST: Latest Thinking on Where Hurricane Florence Might Go

Acting Department of Social Services Director Joan Meacham says shelters are about 12 percent full with the 4,000 residents. Meacham says the state can house more than 35,000 people if needed. She says 61 shelters have opened thus far, including 12 that are specially outfitted to help people with special medical needs.

LIVE BLOG: Hurricane Florence Latest Forecasts and Video

Gov. Henry McMaster has ordered the evacuation of most of the state's coastline as the storm approaches. He also warned residents to be prepared to be without electricity "for a long time" in the storm's aftermath.

"Things will not be normal for several says," he said.

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You can also review the South Carolina Emergency Management Division's checklist for preparation. Again, no need to panic and run out and buy things at the grocery store. But it's just good to go ahead and look at it. There are a ton of good resources there.

Before You Leave, Check This Out