More than 90 water rescues have been made by Washington Fire-Rescue-EMS, according to Fire-Rescue-EMS Battalion Chief Doug Bissette.

The rescues are ongoing, Washington Police and Fire Services Chief Stacy Drakeford said.

The Pamlico River hit a high point of 8.53 feet at 7 a.m. this morning, and flood waters have somewhat receded since. At 9 a.m., the gauge on the Washington U.S. Highway 17 business bridge measured 7.93 feet. Moderate flood level is 8 feet; major is 10 feet.

The Pungo River at Belhaven measured 6.67 feet at 7 a.m., well over the major flood level.

At 7 a.m., all roads heading south toward the river from River Road were impassable due to flood waters. The pump at Jack’s Creek pump station in Washington failed early Friday morning, causing many areas in the Jack’s Creek drainage area (East Third Street to 15th Street) to be inundated with water.

“Storm surge predictions for Beaufort County continue to be between 3 to 10 feet, depending on exact location,” according to a press release from Beaufort County Emergency Services. “Water levels will continue to rise throughout the day. If you are concerned about rising water levels at your location, please do not wait to evacuate.  Evacuate now during daylight hours.  If you are in an emergency situation and need evacuation assistance, dial 911.”

“Please remember that Hurricane Florence is still a serious threat to our community.  Please take every action available to keep yourself and your family safe.  Local emergency resources and many other resources from outside the County are currently working to render services to those in need.  Please stay off the roads during this time to allow these emergency resources the ability to work as quickly and safely as possible,” the release states.