Advisory
Locations & Hours: FEMA representatives will be at the following locations, current hours are 09:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Additional locations and resources will be forthcoming:
Utility Outage Impacting the 911 Center
As of October 10, 2024, our 911 lines have been restored following a recent utility disruption that impacted our phone lines and internet at the 911 center. While our emergency call capabilities are fully operational, some administrative lines continue to experience issues. We encourage residents to call 911 in case of emergencies, as our team is ready to respond promptly. For non-emergency assistance related to Hurricane Helene, residents can reach out to us at 828-652-3241. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we continue to address these challenges and work to restore full communication capabilities.
To support residents facing utility outages and isolation, Comfort Stations have been set up in the Old Fort and Woodlawn communities. These stations are designed to provide essential services and support during this challenging time. The locations and services offered are as follows:
October 10, 2024 Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
October 10, 2024
Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
Students Return To McDowell County Schools
On Wednesday, October 09, students returned to school. According to school officials, “safety is our top priority. Our transportation department and emergency personnel have thoroughly assessed road conditions to ensure all routes are secure for our buses to operate. We understand these changes may create challenges for some families. If you have concerns about transportation or need assistance, please get in touch with your child’s school.” Schools are operating on a two-hour delay for the remainder of the week to allow plenty of daylight for our drivers in the morning and ensure that our student drivers can safely travel to school. A detailed list of community stops and modified bus route information is available at www.mcdowell.k12.nc.us and www.mcdowellcares.org.FEMA Updates
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) resources are now available for those affected by Hurricane Helene in McDowell County. Residents are encouraged to apply for assistance through FEMA’s official website, by calling their hotline, or by visiting one of the registration intake centers listed below. Additional locations are being worked on to better serve the community. Please be aware that FEMA inspectors are currently in the field in Old Fort and may go door to door as part of the assessment process. FEMA representatives will be wearing vests that identify them, as well as photo ID badges, which residents can request to see for verification. Our team at the Helene Hotline is also available to assist with navigating this process.Locations & Hours: FEMA representatives will be at the following locations, current hours are 09:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Additional locations and resources will be forthcoming:
- McDowell Senior Center (UPPER LEVEL ONLY), 100 Spaulding Rd. Marion, NC 28752
- Old Fort Location Coming Soon. Further details will be shared as soon as the site becomes operational.
McDowell County Helene Hotline: Your Primary Resource
The McDowell County Helene Hotline is the best point of contact for residents with any needs or questions regarding recovery efforts. Our team is ready to assist anyone in navigating available resources, including FEMA support, shelters, food, water, and medical assistance. Call us at 828-652-3241 for assistance.Utility Outage Impacting the 911 Center
As of October 10, 2024, our 911 lines have been restored following a recent utility disruption that impacted our phone lines and internet at the 911 center. While our emergency call capabilities are fully operational, some administrative lines continue to experience issues. We encourage residents to call 911 in case of emergencies, as our team is ready to respond promptly. For non-emergency assistance related to Hurricane Helene, residents can reach out to us at 828-652-3241. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we continue to address these challenges and work to restore full communication capabilities.
Current Missing Persons Report (as of 11:00 AM, 10/10/24):
- Total Active Missing Persons Cases: 7
To support residents facing utility outages and isolation, Comfort Stations have been set up in the Old Fort and Woodlawn communities. These stations are designed to provide essential services and support during this challenging time. The locations and services offered are as follows:
- Old Fort Baptist Church
Location: 203 E Main St, Old Fort, NC
Services Provided: Showers, Laundry, and Bathrooms - New Horizon Baptist Church
Location: 5878 US 221 North, Marion, NC
Services Provided: Laundry Services (Shower services have been requested and will be available soon)
McDowellCares.org: Your Hub for Community Resources
An updated list of PODs (Points of Distribution) and community groups providing commodities will be maintained at the end of this release and updated daily. For comprehensive information on recovery resources, visit McDowellCares.org. The website serves as a hub for community resources, including locations for PODs, warm meal sites, and other essential services available to residents. Stay informed and access the support you need.Food & Water Distribution Centers
Location | Center | Hours |
OLD FORT | Krantz Industrial Park. 2 Water Street, Old Fort | 9am – 4pm |
DYSARTSVILLE | Solid Rock Freewill Baptist Church, 7860 HWY 226 S | 10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm |
NEW MANNA BAPTIST | 225 E. Court Street, Marion | 10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm |
ZION HILL BAPTIST CHURCH | 1036 Zion Hill Rd. Marion | 10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm |
NORTH COVE CHURCH OF GOD | 14698 US221 N. | |
WEST COURT BAPTIST | 355 West Court Street, Marion | 9am - 5pm |
LIVING WATER TABERNACLE | 344 Moffitt Hill Church Rd. Old Fort | 10am - 3pm |
RESTORATION CHURCH | 2344 Ashworth Rd. Marion | 9am to 5pm |
CROSS MEMORIAL | 15 Cross Memorial Baptist Church Loop. Marion | Tues. & Thurs. 2pm-8pm |
EAST MARION PENTECOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH | 900 Baldwin Ave, Marion | |
GLENWOOD BAPTIST | 155 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd. Marion | |
CENTRO UNIDO LATINO AMERICANO | 79 Academy St. Marion | |
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF OLD FORT | 203 E Main St, Old Fort | 4pm - 7pm |
Address/Location
McDowell County Emergency Management
129 Barnes Rd
Marion, NC 28752
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 828-652-3241
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