President Barack Obama has declared an emergency for North Carolina

WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama has declared an emergency for North Carolina that is expected to be hit by Hurricane Irene over the weekend. Obama on Thursday night ordered federal aid to supplement state and local responses to the storm. The Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can coordinate all disaster relief efforts. It also means the state is eligible for federal funds to help in cleanup and other needs.

Irene is tightening its aim on the Eastern Seaboard. It threatens up to 65 million people along a shore-hugging path from North Carolina to New England.