McDowell County Responds to Storm Helene Devastation

The aftermath of Storm Helene continues to unfold in McDowell County, North Carolina, where authorities have confirmed a second fatality related to the disaster. Emergency personnel are still in the process of searching for one individual who remains unaccounted for following the storm, which initially led to a missing person list exceeding 1,500 individuals.

Will Kehler, McDowell County’s Emergency Services Director, stated the county is transitioning efforts towards supporting residents on their path to recovery. The emergency operations center is coordinating essential services spanning law enforcement, transportation, public works, and animal services. “At the height of our storm response, we ensured 16 distribution points were operational across McDowell County to service all isolated areas,” Kehler explained. “These points of distribution continue to supply citizens with basic commodities and essential supplies.”

The First Baptist Church in Old Fort is currently functioning as one of two comfort stations, equipped with stockpiled donations. Alongside the church facilities, mobile shower units and laundry services have been established in the parking area. Additionally, a complimentary health clinic is in operation nearby for residents.

Kehler highlighted preemptive measures taken to safeguard residents prior to Helene’s arrival. “Forty-eight hours before the storm, volunteers conducted door-to-door campaigns, distributing flyers to warn of life-threatening flash floods and encouraging temporary relocation from waterways,” Kehler said. A reverse 911 notification contacted over 18,000 phones in the county as part of the proactive efforts.

Throughout the storm, the county’s 911 center managed over 760 service calls, and emergency teams carried out more than 100 helicopter rescues. An emergency shelter is accommodating 55 individuals and will remain operational as temperatures fall during the night.

Kehler indicated that assessments are ongoing to determine the extent of structural damage incurred by buildings due to the storm. Official figures are anticipated to be released soon.