Full Notification

The Helene Hotline is available 24/7 for McDowell County Residents Needing Recovery Assistance
The Helene Hotline (828-652-3241) is available 24/7 to help the public navigate storm recovery resources. Staff can assist with applications for hazard mitigation grants, debris removal, and damage reporting. In-person support for these programs is also available at McDowell County Emergency Services Headquarters at 129 Barnes Rd. Marion, NC. Call the hotline for guidance and support as we work together to recover.

McDowell County Activates EOC as Snowstorm Approaches
McDowell County Emergency Services has activated the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to 24-hour operations in response to the incoming snowstorm while continuing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. The National Weather Service warns of hazardous travel conditions later today due to a flash freeze from cold ground temperatures and snowfall. To ensure road safety, NC Emergency Management has deployed a National Guard HotSpot team to McDowell County. Equipped with heavy wreckers and high-clearance vehicles, the team will patrol Old Fort Mountain on I-40 to keep the roadway open for snow plows and emergency vehicles throughout the storm.

Debris Removal Efforts Continue in McDowell County
As of January 10, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has reported the collection of 39,648.30 cubic yards of debris and 20,372.58 tons of soil as part of ongoing debris removal efforts in McDowell County. As this situation is constantly evolving, please check our storm debris management updates at https://www.mcdowellgov.com/debris Additional passes for ROW debris pickup will continue, and residents are encouraged to place debris within 10 feet of the public right of way. Those needing debris removed from private property or private drives can apply for assistance at www.mcdowellgov.com/helene.

FEMA Extends Hotel Stays Amid Winter Storm
FEMA has announced a 24-hour extension for Transitional Sheltering Program stays due to the incoming winter storm. Households scheduled to check out of their hotels or motels on January 11 will now have an additional day of shelter. If you still need assistance with housing, please call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 for support.