Full Notification

Dangerously Cold Temperatures Continue
The arctic air mass remains over the area through Wednesday allowing very cold temperatures to continue, especially each night and morning. Some higher elevations of the North Carolina mountains will likely not see temperatures rise back above freezing until Saturday.

FEMA Continues to Work with Helene Survivors for Transitional Sheltering Assistance Eligibility
FEMA continues to support survivors of Tropical Storm Helene through the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, which provides hotel accommodations for displaced residents while they secure permanent housing or repair their homes. To date, nearly 13,000 households in Western North Carolina have used the program. While the program remains active, individual eligibility is evaluated every two weeks. FEMA has extended the notice period for ineligible households to vacate hotels from 7 days to 21 days. Reasons for ineligibility include habitable homes, unsuccessful contact attempts, or withdrawal from FEMA’s assistance programs. Survivors requiring further housing assistance are encouraged to contact FEMA at 800-621-FEMA or visit a Disaster Recovery Center.

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.

Debris Removal Efforts Continue in McDowell County
As of January 22, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has reported the collection of 44,682.20 cubic yards of debris and 27,378.26 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.