NC Flood Crisis: Chatham County Reels! Power Outages & Rescue Efforts
Colaboradores
Chatham County NC Grapples with Aftermath of Tropical Depression Chantal
Communities across North Carolina, particularly in Alamance, Durham, Chatham, Orange, Moore, and Person counties, are facing a challenging recovery following the devastating floods caused by Tropical Depression Chantal. The storm's impact has left roads closed, homes damaged, and thousands without power.
Chatham County is among the hardest hit, experiencing significant power outages. According to Duke Energy, over 3,000 customers in Chatham County remain without electricity. Crews are working diligently to restore power, but the extent of the damage is hindering progress.
Rescue Operations and Missing Persons
Rescue efforts have been underway since the storm subsided. In Durham, approximately 80 people were rescued by boat from flooded neighborhoods near the Eno River. Tragically, crews are also searching for two missing boaters on Jordan Lake in Chatham County, highlighting the perilous conditions created by the flooding.
State of Emergency and Infrastructure Damage
The severity of the situation has prompted state of emergency declarations in Alamance, Moore, and Orange counties. The flooding has caused widespread infrastructure damage, with dozens of roads across the state remaining closed, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Major thoroughfares, including I-40/I-85 in Alamance County, were temporarily blocked due to flooding and washed-out roads.
Governor Josh Stein is scheduled to tour the hardest-hit areas, including Lake Michael Park in Mebane, to assess the flood damage firsthand. The tour aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by residents and communities affected by the storm.
Emergency Resources and Support
Emergency resources are being mobilized to support those affected by the flooding. The Red Cross has established an emergency shelter in Durham for displaced residents, providing temporary housing and essential services. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to seek support from local authorities and relief organizations.
The National Weather Service has confirmed that four tornadoes touched down in central North Carolina on Sunday, further exacerbating the storm's impact. An 83-year-old woman tragically lost her life in Chatham County when her car was submerged near Jordan Lake, underscoring the devastating consequences of the severe weather event.