Full Notification

Click the PDF link at the bottom of page for full Press Release

Administrative Phone Lines Down Due to Fiber Cut; 911 Lines Remain Fully Operational
Due to a cut to an underground fiber line on US 70 West near The Animal Hospital, the administrative lines at our 911 center are currently down. However, 911 lines remain fully operational and ready to receive all emergency calls. For non-urgent matters, community members can reach us by calling 828-652-3241. We appreciate everyone’s understanding and patience as we work with AT&T to resolve this issue. Please remember to dial 911 only for true emergencies, and use the alternate number for any non-urgent assistance needed during this time.

Ongoing Debris Removal Efforts in McDowell County: Daily Updates and Community Schedule Information
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in partnership with AshBritt, continues active debris removal throughout communities in Old Fort. McDowell County Emergency Management is working closely with the Corps of Engineers to coordinate debris pickup schedules across additional communities as more trucks are assigned to McDowell and as current trucks complete their first passes in designated areas. Multiple passes will be made along every right-of-way to ensure thorough removal, and residents may notice different trucks collecting various types of debris. Please note that bagged household trash will not be collected by the contracted storm debris teams and should be handled through the usual waste disposal services. Updated community debris removal schedules will be communicated each day in the press release and can also be found at www.mcdowellgov.com/helene.

Top 5 Reasons for Not Getting Approved by FEMA and What You Can Do About It
If FEMA says you are ineligible for assistance, it is not a denial. Often, you may need to send more information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue reviewing your application for financial assistance. The best way to send documents to FEMA Uploading your documents online is the fastest and easiest way to send them to us. Download the FEMA App or access the site directly by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov. Appeal your decision If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you may appeal in any of the following ways: Online: If you set up an online account, appeals can be managed this way. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, log into your account and upload all supporting documents using the correspondence tab and select "Upload Center." In-Person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Be sure to bring your documents. Mail: Send your documents to: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program National Processing Service Center P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 Fax: Send your appeal documents to: (800) 827-8112 Attention: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program Need help? Stay in touch with FEMA Visit a Disaster Recovery Center near you. To locate a recovery center, go to fema.gov/drc. You may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Support for Local Farms Continues
The Cooperative Extension remains committed to supporting our local farms, providing essential resources like animal feed, hay, and fencing assistance while supplies last. Starting November 1, these supplies will be available by appointment only. To schedule a pickup, please call 828-652-8104 and connect with a staff member. A heartfelt thanks to the Cooperative Extension, NC Department of Agriculture, and the US National Guard for their dedication and hard work in assisting our farming community during this challenging time.