Full Notification

McDowell County Emergency Operations Center Update
12/9/2024:

Buck Creek Fire is now 75% contained:
The US Forest Service reported on Monday that the Buck Creek Fire is 75% contained. McDowell EOC will send out a complete press release from the USFS once it is received.

Debris Operations Continue along State Roads:

The US Army Corp of Engineers along with AshBritt have picked up 26,651 cubic yards of debris since operations began after Helene.  Silt removal continues in Old Fort with over 550 tons of soil being removed from town streets.  Debris operations continue to occur along state roads.

McDowell County Hurricane Hotline:
McDowell County EOC continues to operate a Helene Hotline 24 hours a day to meet the needs of McDowell County citizens.  Please contact this hotline if you have storm related questions or need assistance connecting to resources. 828-652-3241

Crisis Counseling, Mental Health Resources Available for Helene Survivors:
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Hope4NC Crisis Counseling Program provides immediate support and crisis counseling services for North Carolinians following Helene. Survivors experiencing stress, emotional fatigue, a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, can call the Hope4NC Helpline 24/7 at 1-855-587-3463. Services are provided at no cost and are available to anyone residing within the declared 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, regardless of their eligibility for FEMA financial assistance.

Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline is available anytime to provide support. Survivors and responders feeling overwhelmed can call or text 1-800-985-5990 to receive free, confidential support in any language.

Foothills Food Hub: Your Resource for Free Food Distribution
The Foothills Food Hub continues to provide free, no-questions-asked food distributions for those in need. Each household will receive a food box filled with shelf-stable goods, fresh produce, and local farmer-sourced meat. Every Monday: Drive-thru distribution at 407 Salem Church Road, Old Fort, NC, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the Month: Distribution at 608 Jacktown Road, Marion, NC, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Please check the monthly calendar for the most accurate distribution dates and times, as schedules may be affected by holidays. If you are unable to attend a distribution, assistance is available. Call 828-659-5289, and McDowell Access to Care and Health (MATCH) can help you sign up to have a food box delivered. For more information and updates, visit www.foothillsfoodhub.org.