RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- As clean-up efforts continue in the western part of the state from Hurricane Helene, and rebuilding is still going on stemming from Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Florence , state leaders are preparing for another hurricane season .

"We are as focused as ever on keeping you safe," said Gov. Josh Stein.

NOAA's National Weather Service is predicting above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year, forecasting 13 to 19 total named storms, of which six to 10 could become hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes.

Stein expressed disappointment over federal cuts, which he believes could impact response efforts.

" Cuts to NOAA and FEMA are a manmade disaster. We need these critical agencies to help us anticipate and respond to nat

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