Charlotte Faces Aftermath of Hurricane Helene
As Charlotte begins to pick up the pieces after the powerful Hurricane Helene barreled through, officials and residents are assessing the damage from the storm that brought heavy rains, high winds, and widespread disruption. Although it has now downgraded to a remnant storm, the risks are still palpable, and communities are bracing for additional challenges over the weekend.
Flash Flood Alerts and Rising Waters
Just before 2 p.m., the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management issued an urgent alert regarding an imminent flash flood at Mountain Island Lake. Authorities are advising people to evacuate the immediate areas as floodwaters are expected to rise rapidly. In response to the rising water, Duke Energy is preparing to open floodgates at the Cowans Ford Dam near Huntersville, further emphasizing the need for people in low-lying areas to get to safety.
Paige Grande, a public information officer for CMEM, shared that damage assessments so far show that downed trees and debris are the most common issues reported. But fiber optic cables and power lines have also suffered, making the risk of flooding a significant concern.
“We are seeing significant flooding at Riverside Drive, Lake Drive, River Haven Drive, and several other locations,” she noted. “The lowland sections are particularly at risk today and into tomorrow.”
Flight Disruptions at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The storm’s impact is evident at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, where the effects of the weather have led to an impressive number of flight cancellations and delays. FlightAware’s MiseryMap shows a staggering 395 flight cancellations and 529 delays affecting travel in and out of the airport as of mid-afternoon. The majority of these disruptions are attributed to American Airlines and its regional partners, which together accounted for over half of the cancellations.
Power Outages Affecting Millons
At the same time, Duke Energy reports that over 1.2 million customers throughout the Carolinas have lost power. The effects are felt hardest in the upstate area of South Carolina, where nearly a hundred percent of customers are without service, and about two-thirds of customers in western North Carolina are experiencing outages as well. For many, the utility company warns that they should prepare for potentially extended periods without power. A comprehensive response is in the works, with crews from 19 states and Canada assisting local teams.
Local Communities Deal with Damage
The small town of Mount Holly, located just across the Catawba River from Charlotte, is experiencing grave consequences from the storm. Here, businesses in the downtown area, including several popular spots like Traust Brewing Co. and Bolton’s Curbside Cookery, have closed their doors due to power outages. Fortunately, they are eager to reopen once power is restored.
However, just a short distance away, the Muddy River Distillery is on high alert as floodwaters threaten its newly opened facility. Nearby homes and an apartment complex have already begun to experience significant flooding, creating anxiety among residents.
Wider Impact on Western North Carolina
As we glance to the west, the picture grows even darker, especially in the mountains where the devastation is severe. According to footage captured by helicopter, regions like Chimney Rock and Lake Lure have been devastated by landslides, flooding, and debris flows. The city of Asheville has instituted a curfew alongside a boil-water advisory, while the N.C. Department of Transportation warns travelers that all major roads in Western North Carolina should be treated as closed, seeking higher ground being their only priority.
Understanding the Storm
Hurricane Helene made its first landfall as a swift-moving Category 4 hurricane in the Big Bend area of northern Florida before continuing its destructive path through Georgia and into the western Carolinas. Tragically, reports indicate at least 22 lives lost across four states due to the storm’s wrath, emphasizing the storm’s terrible impact.
As Charlotte focuses on recovery, residents are reminded to stay safe, monitor local alerts, and support each other through these trying times. It’s a community effort to rise above the challenges presented by Mother Nature.
