Dangerous storm bears down on WNC
The time to prepare for an emergency is now, say local officials.
NOAA.gov photo
A growing tropical storm that’s expected to become a major hurricane is tracking through the Gulf of Mexico and appears to be headed right for Western North Carolina. Local officials aren’t taking any chances.
“I could not be prouder of what we have been able to do so far, but at some point, preparation will give way to prayer. Prep and pray are the buzzwords of the day,” said Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers, who added that he’s been planning for the storm with town administrators and first responders since Sunday.
Smathers is more than familiar with what a storm of this magnitude can do; his town experienced deadly flooding in August 2021 that cut a half-billion dollar swath of destruction through Haywood County, killing six and gutting Canton municipal buildings.
Smathers said he’s talked to schools and local businesses, encouraging them to take action sooner, rather than later. He’s also spoken with the offices of Gov. Roy Cooper, Sen. Thom Tillis and Congressman Chuck Edwards, and with Haywood Rep. Mark Pless.
As of press time on Tuesday, Sept. 24, Tropical Storm Helene was forecast to make landfall along the Florida panhandle sometime Thursday afternoon. Its effects may be felt in upstate South Carolina and the western reaches of North Carolina around that time, into Friday morning.
Gusty winds and heavy rains are expected, with rainfall currently estimated at 4 to 6 inches across The Smoky Mountain News coverage area, and 6 to 8 inches in southern Haywood, Jackson and Macon counties. Parts of Transylvania and Henderson counties could see up to 10 inches.
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Allison Richmond, Haywood County Emergency Services public information officer, told The Smoky Mountain News that there are a number of steps people can take to prepare for an emergency ahead of time.
The biggest thing, Richmond said, was for people to be ready to leave their homes if necessary.
Think about prescription medications, or things that seniors or children might need. Take photographs of relevant documents in case they become lost or inaccessible. Charge all devices and batteries and test weather radios. Make a plan to find lodging and transportation to those accommodations, if necessary.
Richmond also said that the county is currently marshalling staff and gathering resources. Shelters will be available if they’re needed.
“We’re hoping that won’t be the case,” she said.
In the meantime, monitor weather forecasts from credible sources or follow Haywood County Emergency Services on social media, including Facebook, Instagram and X, as well as readyhaywood.com, for updates. The county will also be utilizing the Nextdoor and Ring platforms to broadcast alerts.
