North and South Carolina have both declared states of emergency as Hurricane Idalia approaches. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding, and high winds to the region. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper activated the state's emergency operations plan and waived transportation rules to facilitate the transport of fuel and supplies. The declaration also aims to protect consumers from price gouging. In South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster issued an executive order for state agencies to coordinate a response to potential flooding and other effects from Idalia. The National Hurricane Center predicts the storm will cross Florida before bringing tropical storm conditions to South Carolina. Residents are advised to prepare for high winds, flash flooding, storm surge, and isolated tornadoes. It is crucial for residents to have emergency kits, multiple sources of receiving information, and an evacuation plan if necessary. Coastal residents are urged to determine whether they are located in a coastal evacuation zone and be prepared to follow instructions from local authorities.