September 29th 2024.
The aftermath of tropical depression Helene has brought about dire conditions for some residents of North Carolina. With no power, limited food supplies, and roads that are no longer functional, many are finding themselves stranded in their homes. This is an unusual situation for the normally calm area of Tater Hill, where Jennifer Replogle, a pregnant mother of two, resides.
Replogle explains that they were not prepared for the severity of this storm, which has caused severe flooding and destruction in their community. She shares that the roads leading out of the mountainous region are completely impassable, leaving them trapped with no access to resources. Additionally, the power has been out since Friday, leaving over 700,000 residents without electricity, including Replogle and her family.
The situation is becoming increasingly dire as Replogle reveals that they are running out of food and water. She fears for the future of the plumbing and water services business that she and her husband own, as they have already seen photos of the flooded parking lot. Their employees are also facing the same predicament, as they are either trapped at home or seeking shelter with friends.
The local authorities in Watauga County have declared a curfew due to the dangerous conditions and ongoing emergency operations. The town of Boone has also issued a boil water advisory as multiple water breaks have occurred. The impact of Helene's landfall in Florida as a Category 4 hurricane has been devastating, with at least 59 reported deaths across five states.
The mountainous region of North Carolina has been hit especially hard, with over 60cm of rain falling in just two days. The state Department of Transportation reports that over 400 roads remain closed in this area alone. In fact, they have advised that all roads in Western NC should be considered closed at this time.
The storm has exposed many residents to life-or-death situations, such as 18-year-old Sofia Grace Kunst. While on a mission trip in Black Mountain, she and six friends were playing a card game when a landslide shattered through a window and flooded their dining hall. They were able to escape by crossing a body of water while holding onto a rope, with Kunst sending a text to her parents in fear for her life.
The chaos and destruction caused by Helene are evident to Asheville resident Matt Lewis, who witnessed a semi-truck floating down the French Broad River. He is currently without power or cell service and relying on the radio for updates. The grocery store he visited had a line of over 400 people, with only a few being allowed in at a time.
Another resident, Patrick McNamara, has suffered significant damage to his small milk distribution business due to the floodwaters. He estimates that he will have to dispose of thousands of gallons of milk and is currently trying to clean up the mud that has invaded his warehouse. The future of his business is uncertain, as he may have to temporarily relocate to another facility.
Despite the storm making landfall in Florida on Thursday night, the danger is far from over for residents of North Carolina. Governor Roy Cooper has urged caution and warned of ongoing danger, with some areas still facing up to 2.5cm of rain over the weekend. Rescue efforts are also underway in McDowell County, where many are in need of assistance due to the severe flooding and landslides. The impact of Helene will continue to be felt long after the storm has passed.
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