Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2024

Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

Ongoing Operations in McDowell County
The McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) continues to conduct rescue operations for individuals trapped or stranded in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The McDowell County Helene Hotline remains active, fielding calls related to missing or stranded persons, shelter locations, transportation assistance, oxygen resources, pharmaceutical needs, and other storm-related concerns. Each call is triaged and prioritized, with search and rescue teams dispatched based on the urgency and critical nature of the situation.

Reaching Isolated Communities and Residents
Emergency crews are working tirelessly to establish vital access points to communities and residents isolated by blocked roads and storm debris. Clearing debris and reopening critical access routes are top priorities to ensure immediate relief, medical assistance, and the delivery of essential supplies.

Food & Water Distribution
In coordination with logistics teams, the human services division is facilitating the delivery of essential resources, including water tankers, bottled water, MREs, and other food items, to affected areas throughout McDowell County. Operations are ongoing around the clock to ensure no one is left without access to these essentials. In addition, heavy-duty drones are being used to deliver food and water to individuals in urgent need.

Food and Water Distribution Centers
Distribution will take place daily from:

• 10:00 a.m. until supplies last

• 4:00 p.m. until supplies last

Locations:

• Woodlawn: Hicks Chapel Church, 6008 Hwy 221 N, Marion

• North Cove: Former TJ’s, 8153 Hwy 221 N, Marion

• Old Fort: 1 Water Street, Old Fort, NC

• Dysartsville: Solid Rock Freewill Baptist Church, 7860 Hwy 226 S, Nebo

• New Manna Baptist Church: 225 E. Court Street, Marion

• Zion Hill Baptist Church: 1036 Zion Hill Rd., Marion

Community Meals
Warm meals are served daily at the following location:

• Grace Community Church: 5182 US 70 West, Marion, NC

  • Meal times: 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

For up-to-date information on food and water distribution, shelter availability, community meals, and disaster assistance, visit www.mcdowellems.com or call the McDowell County Helene Hotline at (828) 652-3241.

Medical and Oxygen Support

Open Pharmacies

• Ingles Pharmacy

• Marion Pharmacy

• Prescription Pad

• Walmart Pharmacy

• CVS Pharmacy

Assistance for Homebound Insulin Needs
Individuals who are isolated and need access to insulin can contact the Helene Hotline for assistance.

Oxygen Assistance
Patients who are homebound or without power and need help with oxygen cylinders or charging oxygen concentrators can call the Helene Hotline at (828) 652-3241 for support.

Text-to-911
In the event of an emergency where you cannot place a phone call, remember that McDowell County offers Text-to-911 services. If you’re unable to speak, you can text 911, and an operator will communicate with you via text and dispatch help as needed.

We Won’t Stop!
McDowell County Emergency Services Director, Will Kehler, stated, "The McDowell County Emergency Operations Center, along with our partners, remains fully committed to saving lives and providing critical resources to those impacted by Hurricane Helene. We are continuing rescue operations, expanding food and water deliveries, and providing medical support for as long as it takes. McDowell County is a resilient community, and we stand united during this challenging time. We are working tirelessly to care for every one of our neighbors. Together, we will persevere, and we deeply appreciate everyone’s strength and support."

Media Contact:
McDowell County Emergency Operations Center
Incident Management Team
(828) 652-3241