#Helene's catastrophic impacts are ongoing in western NC. This just announced from McDowell County:
“McDowell County has experienced significant damage due to Hurricane Helene. Swift water rescues and emergency responses to people trapped in houses continues. Nearly all locations in McDowell County are without power. Emergency personnel are unable to access multiple areas.... (see below for shelter information)
...McDowell County Emergency Management has requested air support from NC Emergency Management to rescue trapped citizens who emergency personnel can't reach. Air support will not be available until weather conditions improve. Every available first responder is working to respond to emergency calls. Numerous cell towers are down and major infrastructure damage has occurred....
...The main priorities are to rescue citizens who are still trapped in flood waters and within structures. The priority will then quickly transition to get major roads open and attempt to gain access to isolated communities. Please be patient as we attempt rescue fellow citizens who remain in a life threatening situation. Stay away from floodwaters and off the highways unless you are moving to higher ground...
There are widespread power, internet, and cell phone outages across #westernNC. Most of the information I'm getting and relaying is from NCWX authority (https://www.ncwxauthority.com/?), Day One Relief (on FB only), and the politically-endanged National Weather Service.
...Emergency Shelters Open:
McDowell County Senior Center
100 Spaulding Rd.
Marion, NC 28752
Glenwood Baptist Church
155 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd.
Marion, NC 28752
end thread.