Hurricane Helene Response

Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Updated Monday, September 30, 2024

Riverside Drive Flooding
A little-known situation unfolding in our backyard centers around 100 homes (about 200 people) along the Catawba River in Northwest Charlotte. During the heavy rainfall we received this past weekend, there was a decision made to lower the rising water level of Lake Norman by opening a dam. This triggered an evacuation order on Friday afternoon for Riverside Dr. residents. Similar to what happened in the summer of 2019, this then flooded the downstream shoreline, submerging houses under 15-20 feet of water. They anticipate the water fully receding by Wednesday afternoon. At that time, there will be a full evaluation done with Emergency Management (EM) and Team Rubicon, to assess the impact and damages. Currently, we are coordinating the logistics with EM to efficiently and effectively address the needs that will be identified. We know those needs will be supplies, volunteers, and most likely monetary but specifics will come in the near future as we further plan. Please be in prayer for the families that were able to return and for those still in shelters awaiting the reality of what they will find at their homes.

Western North Carolina (Boone/Asheville & Surrounding Area)
The more we learn about the extent of damage and loss of life, the more we realize how critical a coordinated effort will be once we have more details. We have spoken with leaders on the ground in Asheville and as best as we can gather, this is one of the worst natural disasters this state has dealt with in decades.

We suggest utilizing the Blue Ridge Public Radio website for up-to-date information as well as the state’s Public Safety website that lists many resources including a “Rescue Request.”

Key Actions to Avoid During the Relief Efforts
Many people in our community are going to be asking for ways to support the relief efforts. Some people will feel compelled to “show up” on-site in one of the affected areas. We strongly encourage folks to wait for clear directions from either government officials or professional disaster response organizations before getting on the road. The access points in and out of the affected regions are riddled with washed-out pavement, flooding, or major obstructions, therefore we suggest waiting until volunteers are requested.

Much of the efforts right now are search and rescue. We do not want to add more burden to the situation.

Keep Praying
There is no shortage of need for prayers. As waters are still flooding, housing is still collapsing, and loved ones are still missing, the body of Christ needs to be praying. If you would like to share with us any large-scale prayer efforts, we’d be grateful to know about them and promote them to our prayer networks.

Stay Tuned
After hearing from so many pastors and leaders over the past 48 hours, we are beyond encouraged to see your desire to serve those in need. In the coming days, we will be communicating exactly how you can join with churches, nonprofits, and businesses across the city to support relief efforts. This will include a list of initiatives and organizations that you either can donate to or volunteer with.

Thank you in advance and please let us know if you have any specific efforts. FORCLT is here to help however we can through this time of preparation and response.