Full Notification

Public Notice to Polk County Residents - October 8, 2024
Important Numbers: For Emergency Needs – 911
Informational Hotline – 828-722-5086

FEMA Disaster Assistance
Polk County residents affected by Hurricane Helene may qualify for FEMA disaster assistance. This aid can help with essential needs such as temporary lodging, home repairs, and personal property loss. Residents can apply by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA App, or calling 800-621-3362, with support available daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. To apply, you'll need a contact number, your current and disaster-related addresses, your Social Security number, a list of damages (with photographs of the damage), and banking information if opting for direct deposit. If insured, file a claim promptly, as FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits. If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene, you'll receive an eligibility letter detailing your application status and any aid provided. Review the letter carefully to understand the amount and use of disaster funds. If you have questions or disagree with the decision, call FEMA at 800-621-3362 for clarification.
The county is working with FEMA to determine a location for a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), a one-stop shop for residents impacted by Hurricane Helene, to meet with local, state, and federal representatives to access resources. Once this site has been established, the location and hours/dates of operation will be shared with the community.

Essential Needs Distribution
Beginning today, October 8, through Sunday, October 13, Tryon International Equestrian Center will be open from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. for those needing supplies. If you wish to volunteer to distribute supplies, you can sign up at https://bit.ly/3YcW8jp.
Debris Removal (see attached image)
Residents with debris from Hurricane Helene should place it curbside, within 10 feet of the road, ensuring it doesn't block property access, block the roadway, or cover downed utility and cable lines. The County is coordinating for debris removal and will share details once plans are set. Separate debris into five categories: construction materials, vegetative debris, large appliances, hazardous waste, and electronics. Additionally, document the clean-up process with photos before and after debris removal. For updates, keep an eye out for communication from the County.

Local Resource List

Disaster Response

• FEMA Helpline: CALL 1-800-621-3362
• General Emergency Management Information from FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/
• FEMA Español: https://www.fema.gov/es
• FEMA NC Referrals (Local & State): https://www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/disaster-survivors/state-local-referral-lists/north-carolina
• US Disaster Assistance: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• NC Extension Disaster info: https://ncdisaster.ces.ncsu.edu/
• North Carolina Emergency Management: CALL 1-919-825-2500
• ReadyNC: https://www.readync.gov/
• NC DEQ—Situation Report Tracking System: https://www.deq.nc.gov/news/deq-dashboard
• SBA Disaster Assistance: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance
• American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief/hurricane-relief/hurricane-helene.html

• NCDOT: https://www.ncdot.gov/Pages/default.aspx
• North Carolina Road Conditions/Closures on DriveNC: https://drivenc.gov/

• NC DEQ—Report Environmental Emergency: CALL 1-800-858-0368
• Polk County Health and Human Services (Environmental Health): CALL 828-894-2114
• Polk County Soil & Water: CALL 828-894-8550

• NC Dept of Ag Emergency Services: https://www.ncagr.gov/emergency-programs/disaster-information
• American Veterinary Medical Association: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/emergency-care/pets-and-disasters
• Polk County Cooperative Extension: CALL 828-894-8218

• NC Dept of Insurance: https://www.ncdoi.gov/press-release-terms/disaster
• NC Dept of Insurance: CALL 1-919-807-6800

• Report Fraud: EMAIL [email protected] or CALL 866-223-0814
• Report Price Gouging: CALL 877-5-NO-SCAM

• Polk County Building Inspections: call 828-894-3739