As Michael Approaches, Cooper Urges Caution, Calls For Recovery Money

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is urging residents to prepare as Hurricane Michael closes in.

Michael will have weakened some by the time it arrives in the Tar Heel State, but in a Wednesday briefing, North Carolina officials said it's not worth taking any chances.

This is especially true for parts of the state still digging out from the wreckage caused by Hurricane Florence, according to Cooper.

Hurricane Michael is expected to pack its biggest punch in the Triad Thursday, bringing potentially heavy rains and tropical-force winds to the area.

Forecasters say there's an elevated threat of flash flooding and river flooding in the eastern Piedmont and Coastal Plain.

Later in his morning briefing, Cooper said he wants state lawmakers to provide $750 million next week as part of a long-term $1.5 billion Hurricane Florence recovery package.

The Democratic governor revealed his proposal Wednesday, saying the state needs a "unique and bold" response to a storm his office estimates caused almost $13 billion in damage — as much as hurricanes Floyd and Matthew did combined.

Cooper ultimately wants a half-billion dollars toward housing and another $310 million to help farmers. Other money would go to repair public schools, universities and roads.

Congress already has approved $1 billion for North Carolina's recovery.

The governor says his request wouldn't require higher taxes — initial money would come from the state's savings reserve and money unspent in this year's budget.

The Republican-controlled legislature reconvenes Monday.