South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper visited Madison County to assess storm damage alongside local officials and representatives from FEMA. In the company of Mayor Aaron Haynie, Governor Cooper evaluated the situation in Marshall, where he met with residents and first responders. He noted the collaborative efforts between local, state, and federal entities in recovery operations.

“Today I traveled to Marshall and the Madison County Emergency Operations Center, met with residents, first responders, soldiers and business owners and again saw how they are working together with local, state and federal officials to recover and rebuild," said Governor Cooper.

Following this visit, Governor Cooper joined EPA Administrator Michael Regan to examine water infrastructure issues in Haywood and Buncombe counties. The two discussed potential federal support for rebuilding water systems in Western North Carolina. “I also surveyed sites with EPA Administrator Michael Regan where work is happening to restore clean drinking water and we discussed streams for federal funds that are needed to build back these systems stronger than ever,” added Governor Cooper.

The visit included stops at an EPA mobile command center used by first responders and scientists for field activities coordination. They also reviewed operations at a mobile drinking water lab aimed at lifting boil water advisories.

Efforts continue as more than 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen from various states assist in Western North Carolina through Joint Task Force-North Carolina. They operate numerous aviation assets and specialized vehicles while assessing critical infrastructure like water plants.

FEMA has disbursed over $70 million in Individual Assistance funds to disaster survivors across Western North Carolina. More than 143,000 individuals have registered for assistance. Federal partners have provided significant quantities of food and water to affected communities.

A Major Disaster Declaration includes 27 counties in North Carolina along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Residents can apply for aid via FEMA's helpline or website.

Over 1,400 responders from different agencies are engaged through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), supporting various missions including public health services.

Authorities warn against misinformation on social media regarding storm impacts. NCEM has launched a webpage addressing rumors versus facts about the ongoing situation.

Residents without power number around 90,000 due to storm-related outages affecting major routes throughout Western North Carolina. The NCDOT advises against unnecessary travel while repair crews work on damaged roads.

Ninety-one fatalities have been confirmed by state medical examiners related to the storm event. Authorities urge those needing emergency assistance or unable to contact loved ones in affected areas to reach out via designated hotlines.

For donations or volunteer opportunities aiding recovery efforts, information is available on official state websites dedicated to disaster relief initiatives.