Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 5, 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, “Our mission continues. Each day, our dedicated search and rescue teams are conducting thorough searches throughout the county.We will not stop until all our citizens are accounted for. I am proud to see the dedication of our rescuers and the neighbors helping neighbors spirit throughout our community.”
Search and Rescue Operations Update
McDowell County has received 488 missing persons reports through our call center and the online reporting form. As of this morning, 373 individuals have been safely accounted for, and their families are being notified. As power and cell phone service continue to be restored in McDowell County, we continued reports of missing persons. The McDowell County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement teams, continues to work diligently on the remaining 115 reported cases, ensuring that every lead is thoroughly investigated.
As of this morning’s press release, McDowell County has confirmed only one fatality as a result of Hurricane Helene. Today throughout McDowell County there are over 350 personnel from Federal, State and Local SAR Teams that are actively and systematically searching for survivors and casualties, these teams include specially trained K-9 units. Secondary searches will continue around the clock, and we will provide updates to the public as soon as authorities notify us of any new information regarding search and rescue operations.
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 Registration Intake 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.
False Information: There are numerous false reports and misleading information circulating online about Hurricane Helene on social media.  To ensure that you are receiving the most accurate information please sign up for Nixle by texting 28752 to 888777 or follow McDowell County 911/Emergency Management on Facebook.
Media Contact:
McDowell County Emergency Operations Center
Incident Management Team
(828) 652-3241