Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2024

10/6/24 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.
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.
 
Missing Persons Report (Recap from 10/5/24):

• Total Missing Persons Reports (as of 10/5): 488
• Persons Located (as of 10/5): 373 (including 1 confirmed fatality)
• Reports Pending Investigation (as of 10/5): 115

 

Current Missing Persons Report (as of 2:00 PM, 10/6/24):

• Total Missing Persons Reports Filed: 494

Breakdown:

• 421 persons safely found and accounted for.
• 1 person located and confirmed as a fatality.
• 11 active cases are pending investigation — all have been dispatched and are being actively worked on.
• 30 reports were determined to belong to surrounding counties and have been referred to the appropriate authorities.
• 31 reports were confirmed as duplicate cases of the same individual, after thorough investigation.

Our Commitment:

We are working tirelessly to ensure each report is investigated thoroughly. Every report is handled individually until we can confidently determine whether the person has been found, referred to another county, or confirmed as a duplicate.
These numbers will continue to be reported as clearly and transparently as possible. We understand the importance of trust during this critical time, and we will keep providing the public with the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Search and Rescue Operations Update
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.  
Teams are conducting systematic searches in the hardest-hit areas, prioritizing locations where missing persons have been reported. Our efforts are ongoing as we work to gain access to isolated communities and individual residences to ensure everyone's safety.
Essential Supplies Distribution: Food, Water, and More
In collaboration with local churches and agencies, distribution points across the community are providing essential supplies, including food, water, toiletries, and other critical resources. The distribution points are open to all residents affected by the Helene and are fully stocked with items to support those in need: “Our priority is ensuring that every resident has access to the basic necessities during this period of recovery,” said Jerry Lewis, Pastor of Grace Community Church. “These distribution points are here to provide immediate relief to our community, and we strongly encourage anyone in need to take advantage of these resources. These locations are here to help.”
For up-to-date information, 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.
Media Contact:
McDowell County Emergency Operations Center
Incident Management Team
(828) 652-3241