Living in North Carolina is amazing, we’re the first to admit it. But like every state, the Tar Heel State has its share of risks (after all, life in general comes with risks!). This scary danger doesn’t mean that we find living here any less appealing…there’s just these 15 little risks in North Carolina we sometimes have to deal with.
Being located by the sea means there are a number of dangerous things in North Carolina, most notably hurricanes. Several dozen have taken their toll on our coastline, but one we all remember is Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Floyd left 36 North Carolinians dead and caused billions of dollars in property damage.
This is a danger that's particularly prevalent in western North Carolina. Small avalanches occur frequently, sometimes even blocking off entire highways!
Three types of rattlesnakes are found in North Carolina, further emphasizing the saying "look before you step." We've got three other species of venomous snakes as well. Not to mention black bears: while usually not aggressive, are still a threat. We have alligators, snakes, spiders...all the terrifying wildlife loves North Carolina too! Typically, wild animals do not attack humans when unprovoked, but it's best to always be cautious when out in the wild.
In the winter months, North Carolina is not shy to some pretty serious ice storms. Some have left residents without power for days. While others have left tree limbs hanging heavy over houses. Ice storms can be very dangerous in North Carolina.
No matter what time of year it is, flooding is always a scary subject. During hurricane season in particular, rainstorms take no discretion as to what part of the state they hammer. Flash flooding is particularly dangerous and can come on without warning.
While there's that whole "southerners can't handle the snow" stereotype, sometimes we really can't! Most states down here lack the proper equipment to clear streets, so what would be a minor snowfall in New York or Maine can shut down southern cities for days. We are usually left with only the option to stay indoors for a few days and wait it out. Western North Carolina has pretty frequent major snow storms and blizzards.
Swimming off the coast is one of the best things about living in North Carolina...until you spot a fin in the water. It's tough to not be afraid of sharks, especially if you've seen "Jaws," but in reality, sharks rarely attack humans. We'll still steer clear of them, though!
Speaking of beachside horrors, the rip current is definitely one to fear! Before you know it, you can be pulled out to sea rying desperately to swim against the current. Mom was right about this one; never go above the knees in the ocean on a windy day.
While our football team is the Panthers, supposedly the days of these wild creatures roaming our landscape is long gone. That doesn't dispute the copious reports of large black cats spotted in the woods, sometimes as far east as the coast. What exactly is this creature? If it were to appear, would it really attack a human?
10. Duke and/or Carolina fans
Whatever your respective side, keep your friends close, and your enemy down by at least 4 points in the second half.
Don't eat the last slice of bread...you'll be unmarried and alone forever! And don't even think about stepping on a sidewalk crack if you want your mama's back to remain intact.
Anything you can muster up in the dark side of your imagination, North Carolina has a story for. From sirens to ghosts to demon dogs that chase your car, we're a state filled with legend. Who's to say which ones are true?
In sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it seems if your car were to make one wrong turn (or one anxious squirrel darted in front), you'd fly down about 3,000 feet. Well, heights are something to be feared here. Luckily, it's a good place to overcome that fear as well. Living in North Carolina comes with high altitudes, so we hope you are ready for heights!
I don't understand you, and that scares me. You're saying you don't like mountains, waterfalls, nice people, great food, beaches....RUN!
While some risks on this list may be a bit silly, some are definitely for real. There are some risks to living in North Carolina! What do you think is worth adding to this list? Tell us in the comments!
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Living In North Carolina
Lisa Sammons|July 21, 2021
What are some beautiful natural wonders in North Carolina?
North Carolina is unique in how many incredible ecosystems we have! Whether you like the mountains or the beach, fields or forest, we've got everything here. The Blue Ridge Mountains is one of the most beautiful areas in the country, and there's a reason it's such a great tourist attraction in the fall. And how about Jockey's Ridge? It's the tallest active sand dune on the east coast! Check out this list of more must-see natural wonders in North Carolina.
What are some good cities in North Carolina?
North Carolina has a lot of wonderful larger cities as well as charming small towns. Raleigh is consistently ranked among the best cities in North Carolina. Asheville is such a quirky area with so much pizazz and artistry. Durham is a great college town.
What are the best state parks in North Carolina?
Did you know we have 41 state parks in North Carolina? One that we really love is Chimney Rock State Park, which is often considered to be the best of the best. Our chimney rock is 315 feet tall and you can actually climb to the top of it!
