Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 4, 2024

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

Ongoing Operations in McDowell County
Operational efforts in McDowell County remain robust as we prioritize secondary searches to locate missing persons. Our dedicated teams are actively working to gain access to isolated communities, ensuring that no one is left behind, and that commodities continue to reach them until access is established. In collaboration with FEMA, we are also securing locations where individuals can complete necessary paperwork and access vital resources. McDowell County Emergency Services Director, Will Kehler, said, “It is all hands on deck. We will not stop until all our citizens have access to roads, food, water, and other resources. We are moving the needle daily with extreme collaboration and coordination from our community and assistance from many outside our community. We will not fail; together with our citizens, we will be stronger.”

Search and Rescue Operations Update
McDowell County has received 440 missing persons reports through our call center and the online reporting form. As of this morning, 347 individuals have been safely accounted for, and their families have been notified. As power and cell phone service are restored in McDowell County, we have observed a significant increase in reports of missing persons. This surge highlights the importance of our ongoing operational efforts, which focus on conducting secondary searches and providing answers for concerned friends and family. We recognize that there may be duplicate reports, but we are committed to treating each report individually until we can confirm the status of everyone involved. The McDowell County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement teams, continues to work diligently on the remaining 93 reported cases, ensuring that every lead is thoroughly investigated. These teams are conducting extensive search operations throughout the county to ensure that all individuals are found and reunited with their loved ones.
Shelter, Food & Water Distribution, and Other Assistance
For up-to-date information on food and water distribution, shelter availability, community meals, and disaster assistance, visit www.mcdowellcares.org or call the McDowell County Helene Hotline at       (828) 652-3241.

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open
Locations & Hours: FEMA representatives will be at the following locations, current hours are 09:00 am until 5:00 pm.  Additional locations will be forthcoming:

•  McDowell Senior Center UPPER LEVEL ONLY,  100 Spaulding Rd. Marion, NC 28752
• Glenwood Baptist 155 Glenwood Baptist Church  Rd. Marion, NC 28752

Disaster Recovery Centers have been established to provide community members with direct access to FEMA representatives. At these centers, the following resources are available:
Available Services:

1. Registration for FEMA Disaster Assistance: You can apply for disaster assistance on-site.
2. Claim Updates: Check on the current status of your FEMA claim and ask about any updates.
3. Inspector Inquiries: Ask when a FEMA inspector will visit your home to assess damage.

What is NOT available:

1. No Cash or Vouchers: No financial assistance (cash or vouchers) will be handed out directly at these locations.
2. No Hotel Vouchers: Hotel vouchers will not be distributed in person at the center, these would be approved through your FEMA account.

How Will I Know What Help I Am Going to Receive?

1. Case Managers Are Reviewing Cases Nationwide: They are expediting resources for urgent needs.
2. Receive Updates via Your Preferred Method: You’ll be notified about your case progress through the communication method you chose—whether it’s through the FEMA app, email, text, or phone call.
3. If you are going to receive hotel vouchers or other assistance it will all be notified directly through your FEMA portal via the App, email, text or phone call.

For more information about FEMA disaster recovery you can visit  www.disasterassistance.gov.
Media Contact:
McDowell County Emergency Operations Center
Incident Management Team
(828) 652-3241