FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 14, 2024
Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

Missing Persons & Welfare Check Update
Active missing persons cases under investigation: 2
Confirmed fatalities: 1, with 1 additional death pending investigation.

As of 9:00 AM on October 14, 2024, we have not received any new welfare check requests or missing persons reports. There are currently three active missing person cases under investigation. McDowell County has investigated a total of 717 reports through the McDowell County Helene Hotline and 785 reports through 211, with each case thoroughly reviewed. At present, we have one confirmed fatality, and a second death is pending determination by the Medical Examiner’s Office.
Our team remains fully committed to supporting affected families and providing timely updates. We continue to receive requests for welfare checks and supply deliveries to isolated homes, and our crews are responding swiftly to ensure essential resources reach those in need. We greatly appreciate the community's ongoing patience and cooperation as we address these urgent matters.

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:

1. Large appliances
2. Construction debris
3. Vegetative debris
4. Hazardous waste
5. Electronics
6. Household waste

Proper separation of debris into these categories is crucial for timely collection.
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: Showers, Laundry, and Bathrooms

These Comfort Stations aim to provide much-needed relief to those experiencing prolonged utility disruptions. Residents are encouraged to use these resources and to share this information with neighbors who may require assistance. 

Food & Water Distribution Centers As Of 10/14/24

 

Community	Location	Address	Hours
Glenwood	Restoration Church	2344 Ashworth Rd. Marion	9am to 5pm
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	4pm - 7pm M-F
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