Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 15, 2024 3:38 pm GMT
As Hurricane Helene lashes Jackson County, residents are urged to act swiftly for their safety. With conditions rapidly worsening, the local Emergency Management officials recommend people stay indoors and avoid traveling.
Hurricane Helene Hits Jackson County
Jackson County Emergency Management Director Todd Dillard reported that Hurricane Helene made landfall early on Friday, September 27. The storm has severely impacted communities, particularly in southern Jackson County, including Cashiers, Sapphire Valley, Glenville, and into the Highlands area. Residents in northern parts of the county, such as Sylva, Webster, Whittier, Dillsboro, and Cherokee are also feeling the effects.
Dillard stated, “We have numerous creeks coming out of their banks, and the Tuckaseegee River has overflowed in several locations.” As a result, around 10,000 residents are currently without power, and there are at least 40 road closures reported.
Emergency Resources Available
In light of the storm, two evacuation shelters have been established in Jackson County:
- Cashiers Recreation Center: 355 Frank Allen Road, Cashiers
- Department on Aging Center: 100 County Services Park, Sylva
These shelters provide a safe haven for anyone needing to evacuate the area. Local agencies are prepared to assist individuals facing emergencies.
Weather Forecast and Safety Recommendations
The National Weather Service predicts that rainfall could reach up to two inches per hour, with wind speeds expected to hit 50 to 60 mph. While conditions may improve by 11 a.m., Dillard cautioned that flooding in rivers and creeks may continue to worsen for up to 24 hours following the storm.
For anyone experiencing power outages, Duke Energy reported approximately 10,000 outages as of 9:06 a.m. To report an outage, call 800-769-3766 or visit their outage report site.
In case of emergencies, it is vital to contact local authorities promptly by dialing 911 or 818-631-HELP.
Keeping Informed
Residents are encouraged to stay updated by following the Jackson County Emergency Management on social media. The office is also utilizing the CodeRED system to send out emergency notifications. Individuals can sign up for notifications here.
Dillard emphasized that all emergency management resources are working tirelessly. This includes collaboration among local rescue teams, fire departments, the North Carolina (N.C.) National Guard, and volunteer groups.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Helene gets closer, everyone in Jackson County is thinking about how to stay safe. It’s important to avoid driving on the roads, use emergency shelters if needed, and keep up with information from trusted sources. By following these steps, people can help protect themselves and their neighbors during this scary time.
