Two days after Hurricane Helene, Congressman Chuck Edwards provided an update on the ongoing relief efforts. Rescue operations have been active, with over 30 swift water and helicopter rescue crews from North Carolina and nearby states rescuing more than 200 people since Thursday. Thousands of linemen from across North America, including Canadian crews, are working to restore power. Dozens of trucks carrying potable water and food have been delivered to shelters.
Congressman Edwards noted that many families are still trying to connect with loved ones in areas with limited cell service. He advised residents to call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state to report missing persons. Additionally, individuals can report themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-733-2767.
North Carolina has received a Major Disaster Declaration, making residents in several counties eligible for Individual Assistance through FEMA. Individuals can apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. EST.
Supplying drinkable water remains a priority as multiple water plants are closed or operating on backup power. A system-wide boil water advisory is in place for 50 water systems.
Power outages persist in Western North Carolina, but Duke Energy is working to restore services. Over 544,000 customers statewide have had their power restored, though about 630,000 customer accounts remain without power as of Saturday afternoon.
The flooding has caused significant damage to substations responsible for transmitting electricity throughout the region. Duke Energy is prepared to repair or replace damaged equipment once conditions allow assessments.
Fuel planning is ongoing for rescue operations and communications resources with activated fuel contracts ensuring steady reserves during the emergency.
A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains from the NCDOT due to road closures caused by high water, landslides, downed power lines, pipe failures, and fallen trees. Efforts continue to clear debris and reopen roads.
Asheville Regional Airport remains closed for commercial flights due to lack of internet service but has reopened for non-commercial air traffic delivering National Guard supplies.
Severe cell service outages continue in Western North Carolina due to flooding. Service providers have deployed additional Compact Rapid Deployables and SatCOLTs (Satellite Cells on Light Trucks) since Friday.
The North Carolina National Guard has deployed over 400 soldiers and airmen along with High Water Vehicles and other equipment for support operations. Additional aircraft are expected from New York and other states.
Local government leaders are reminded to submit requests for resources such as gasoline, food, water, and cell service deployables through North Carolina Emergency Management if they haven’t heard back within 24 hours.
Shelters remain open across various counties for those unable to evacuate or needing a place to stay:
Buncombe:
A-B Technical Community College
First Baptist Church Swannanoa
WNC Agricultural Center
Haywood:
Haywood County Government Armory
Henderson:
Edneyville Elementary School
Henderson County Recreation Center
Jackson:
Cashiers Recreation Center
Jackson County Department of Aging
Madison:
Madison County Wellness Center
McDowell:
First Baptist Church of Old Fort
Glenwood Baptist Church
McDowell County Senior Center
Polk:
Polk County High School
Rutherford:
Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School
Swain:
Swain Community College
Transylvania:
Pisgah Forest Baptist Church
Yancey:
South Toe Elementary School
West Yancey Volunteer Fire Department
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
