McDowell County Emergency Operations Center Helene Response Update

McDowell County -- October 10, 2024: For Immediate Release: Hurricane Helene Response Update from McDowell

County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

Students Return To McDowell County Schools

On Wednesday, October 09, students returned to school. According to school officials, “safety is our top priority. Our transportation department and emergency personnel have thoroughly assessed road conditions to ensure all routes are secure for our buses to operate. We understand these changes may create challenges for some families. If you have concerns about transportation or need assistance, please get in touch with your child’s school.” Schools are operating on a two-hour delay for the remainder of the week to allow plenty of daylight for our drivers in the morning and ensure that our student drivers can safely travel to school. A detailed list of community stops and modified bus route information is available at www.mcdowell.k12.nc.us and www.mcdowellcares.org.

FEMA Updates

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) resources are now available for those affected by Hurricane Helene in McDowell County. Residents are encouraged to apply for assistance through FEMA’s official website, by calling their hotline, or by visiting one of the registration intake centers listed below. Additional locations are being worked on to better serve the community. Please be aware that FEMA inspectors are currently in the field in Old Fort and may go door to door as part of the assessment process. FEMA representatives will be wearing vests that identify them, as well as photo ID badges, which residents can request to see for verification. Our team at the Helene Hotline is also available to assist with navigating this process.

Locations & Hours: FEMA representatives will be at the following locations, current hours are 09:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Additional locations and resources will be forthcoming:

McDowell Senior Center (UPPER LEVEL ONLY), 100 Spaulding Rd. Marion, NC 28752
Old Fort Location Coming Soon. Further details will be shared as soon as the site becomes operational.
Disaster Recovery Centers are being established to provide community members with direct access to FEMA representatives and additional wrap-around services to support those in need. Online registration is also available at https://www.disasterassistance.gov.

McDowell County Helene Hotline: Your Primary Resource

The McDowell County Helene Hotline is the best point of contact for residents with any needs or questions regarding recovery efforts. Our team is ready to assist anyone in navigating available resources, including FEMA support, shelters, food, water, and medical assistance. Call us at 828-652-3241 for assistance.
Utility Outage Impacting the 911 Center

As of October 10, 2024, our 911 lines have been restored following a recent utility disruption that impacted our phone lines and internet at the 911 center. While our emergency call capabilities are fully operational, some administrative lines continue to experience issues. We encourage residents to call 911 in case of emergencies, as our team is ready to respond promptly. For non-emergency assistance related to Hurricane Helene, residents can reach out to us at 828-652-3241. We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we continue to address these challenges and work to restore full communication capabilities.

Current Missing Persons Report (as of 11:00 AM, 10/10/24):
Total Active Missing Persons Cases: 7
Comfort Stations Established in Old Fort and Woodlawn Communities

To support residents facing utility outages and isolation, Comfort Stations have been set up in the Old Fort and Woodlawn communities. These stations are designed to provide essential services and support during this challenging time. The locations and services offered are as follows:

Old Fort Baptist Church
Location: 203 E Main St, Old Fort, NC
Services Provided: Showers, Laundry, and Bathrooms
New Horizon Baptist Church
Location: 5878 US 221 North, Marion, NC
Services Provided: Laundry Services (Shower services have been requested and will be available soon)
These Comfort Stations aim to provide much-needed relief to those experiencing prolonged utility disruptions. Residents are encouraged to use these resources and to share this information with neighbors who may require assistance.
McDowellCares.org: Your Hub for Community Resources
An updated list of PODs (Points of Distribution) and community groups providing commodities will be maintained at the end of this release and updated daily. For comprehensive information on recovery resources, visit McDowellCares.org. The website serves as a hub for community resources, including locations for PODs, warm meal sites, and other essential services available to residents. Stay informed and access the support you need.

Food & Water Distribution Centers

Location
Center
Hours

OLD FORT
Krantz Industrial Park. 2 Water Street, Old Fort
9am – 4pm
DYSARTSVILLE
Solid Rock Freewill Baptist Church, 7860 HWY 226 S
10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm

NEW MANNA BAPTIST
225 E. Court Street, Marion
10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm
ZION HILL BAPTIST CHURCH
1036 Zion Hill Rd. Marion
10am – 12pm & 4pm - 6pm

NORTH COVE CHURCH OF GOD
14698 US221 N.
WEST COURT BAPTIST
355 West Court Street, Marion
9am - 5pm

LIVING WATER TABERNACLE
344 Moffitt Hill Church Rd. Old Fort
10am - 3pm

RESTORATION CHURCH
2344 Ashworth Rd. Marion
9am to 5pm

CROSS MEMORIAL
15 Cross Memorial Baptist Church Loop. Marion
Tues. & Thurs. 2pm-8pm

EAST MARION PENTECOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH
900 Baldwin Ave, Marion

GLENWOOD BAPTIST
155 Glenwood Baptist Church Rd. Marion

CENTRO UNIDO LATINO AMERICANO
79 Academy St. Marion

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF OLD FORT
203 E Main St, Old Fort
4pm - 7pm