October 13, 2024 Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 13, 2024
Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
Missing Persons & Welfare Check Update
Active missing persons cases under investigation: 3
Confirmed fatalities: 1 (family notified), with 1 additional death pending investigation.
As of 12:00 PM on October 13, 2024, McDowell County has investigated 717 local reports through the McDowell County Helene Hotline and 785 reports through 211. Each report has been thoroughly reviewed. Currently, there are three active missing persons cases, one confirmed fatality, and a second death pending determination by the Medical Examiner’s Office. Our team is working tirelessly to provide updates and support to affected families.
We continue to receive requests for welfare checks and supply deliveries to isolated homes. Our crews are promptly dispatching these requests as they come in, ensuring that those in need receive essential resources. We appreciate the community's continued patience and cooperation as we respond to these urgent needs.
Shelter Operations Update
McDowell County continues to support residents in need of shelter during ongoing recovery efforts. As of today, one shelter remains operational at the McDowell County Senior Center (lower level), located at 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752. This shelter will remain open 24/7 and available to any citizen requiring sheltering assistance.
County officials emphasize that there is no intention to close this shelter. The shelter will remain operational for as long as necessary to meet the needs of the community.
For additional information or assistance, residents are encouraged to contact the shelter at 828-652-3241.
FEMA Updates
Four Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) have opened in Buncombe, McDowell, Caldwell and Jackson counties to help North Carolinians in disaster affected counties. Hours are from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday. More centers will be opening soon. Find a center nearest you at FEMA.gov/drc.
The McDowell County DRC is located at: McDowell County Senior Center, 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, N.C. 28752.
The Buncombe County DRC is located at: A.C. Reynolds High School, 1 Rocket Dr., Asheville, N.C. 28803.
The Caldwell County DRC is located at: Caldwell County Health & Human Services Center, 2345 Morganton Blvd SW, Lenoir, N.C. 28645.
The Jackson County DRC is located at: Jackson County Annex Building, 198 WBI Dr., Sylva, N.C. 28779
Debris Removal Update
As McDowell County continues its efforts to clear debris and restore normalcy after Tropical Storm Helene, residents and businesses are urged to follow essential guidelines to ensure an efficient debris pickup process.
Over the next several weeks, contractors hired by McDowell County will begin removing storm debris from public roadways in the Town of Old Fort, the City of Marion, and along State secondary roads in the County. The cost of debris removal will be covered by State and Federal funds.
Residents are encouraged to move debris to within 10 feet of the right-of-way for collection. This applies to all debris categories and includes secondary state-maintained roadways. To assist in the recovery process, debris must be separated into the following six categories:
- Large appliances
- Construction debris
- Vegetative debris
- Hazardous waste
- Electronics
- Household waste
Additionally, be cautious of scammers offering debris removal or water testing services. Scammers often exploit disaster situations. Make sure to verify businesses with the Better Business Bureau, confirm they are licensed and insured, and avoid any company that asks for full payment upfront.
Volunteer Help is Here
For those in need of assistance with chainsaw work, mud-out services, or other storm recovery efforts, please call the McDowell County Helene Hotline at 828-652-3241. Our team is ready to help connect you with volunteer resources to support your recovery. If Hurricane Helene has caused damage to your home or belongings, it is crucial to document the damage for reimbursement purposes. Be sure to take photos before beginning any cleanup efforts, make a list of damaged or lost items, and gather receipts. Citizens can also visit www.mcdowellcares.org and click on "Homeowner Assistance" to request help online.
Free Mobile Health Clinic Opens in Old Fort
A free mobile health clinic is now open in Old Fort, NC, to support the community's medical needs following Hurricane Helene. Located at 25 W. Main St., Old Fort, NC, the clinic operates daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, providing convenient access to healthcare services for residents. The clinic is equipped to offer a range of medical care, ensuring that those affected by the storm have access to the support they need during this challenging time.
Comfort Stations Established in Old Fort and Woodlawn Communities
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: Shower, Laundry, and Bathrooms
Food & Water Distribution Centers As Of 10/13/24
Community | Location | Address | Hours |
Glenwood | Restoration Church | 2344 Ashworth Rd. Marion | 9am to 5pm |
Glenwood | Glenwood Baptist | 155 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd. Marion | 10am - 8pm |
Marion | New Manna Baptist | 225 E. Court Street, Marion | 10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm |
Marion | Centro Unido Latino Americano | 79 Academy St. Marion | 9am - 5pm |
Marion | First Baptist Church of Marion | 99 N. Main St, Marion | 9am - 5pm |
Old Fort | Cherry Springs (Old Fort) | 6 Bull Walker Rd. Old Fort | Sundays 2pm-6pm / Wednesdays 4pm - 7pm |
Old Fort | First Baptist Church of Old Fort | 203 E Main St, Old Fort | 12pm - 6pm |
Old Fort | Camp Grier | 985 Camp Greir Rd. Old Fort | 10am - 1pm & 4pm-7pm |
Pleasant Gardens | Tom Johnson's Camping Center | 348 Resistoflex Rd. Marion | Weekends 11am - 4pm / Weekdays 9am - 5pm |
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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