Sheriff Jack Smith said the curfew was enacted to give water flooding roads across the county time to recede.
The curfew went into effect at 8 this evening.
Smith said in a statement eight different places on Highway 158 between Garysburg and Conway are completely flooded.
There have been several people taken for medical treatment after striking downed trees in their vehicles.
“All motorists are urged and required to stay off the dangerous roads and highways unless there is a true emergency,” Smith said in the statement. “There are numerous roads that are completely flooded and are impassable. There are numerous trees that are laying across the roadways in several locations making it impossible for drivers to cross. These conditions are leaving numerous motorist stranded.”
Smith said the rains from the outer bands of Hurricane Matthew are expected to continue through the early morning hours.”When motorists attempt to drive in these conditions of flooding, especially in the night hours after dark, it causes an increased safety issue for everyone. These flooded roadways are dangerous, are difficult to notice until it’s too late, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. There have been numerous accidents reported involving motorists in this county.”
Said Smith in the statement: “I am requesting that all people obey the hours of this curfew and stay off the highway. I don’t want anyone to lose their lives or risk their safety.”