Full Notification

Dangerously Cold Temperatures Expected Early Next Week
An arctic air mass moves into the area Sunday night and remains in place through Wednesday. Temperatures will be 15 to 20 degrees below normal Monday through Wednesday and wind chills may be so low as to be dangerous for some individuals. The potential for any wintry precipitation during this time is highly uncertain.

Disaster Energy and Rental Assistance Programs Now Available for Hurricane Helene Survivors
North Carolina has launched Disaster Energy Assistance and Emergency Rental Assistance programs to support households impacted by Hurricane Helene. Eligible residents can apply for help with utility bills, furnace repairs, heating costs, and one-time rent payments to prevent eviction. To qualify, households must meet income guidelines and demonstrate disaster-related losses. Applications are accepted in person at the McDowell County DSS (145 E. Court St, Marion) or by phone at (828) 652-3355. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with direct payments made to landlords for rental assistance.

USDA Recovery Programs Offer Vital Support for Farmers Affected by Hurricane Helene
Farmers affected by Hurricane Helene can access several recovery resources through the USDA. The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish program offers financial help for losses like feed, hay, and grazing, with higher payments for socially disadvantaged, beginning, or veteran producers. The Tree Assistance Program aids orchardists, nurseries, and vineyards in replanting or rehabilitating damaged trees, shrubs, and vines used for commercial crops. Additional programs assist with debris removal, land rehabilitation, and losses to animals, crops, and trees. Applications are accepted at local USDA Service Centers, and resources are available on Farmers.gov.

Debris Removal Efforts Continue in McDowell County
As of January 17, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has reported the collection of 41,778.25 cubic yards of debris and 23,780.71 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.