The small town of Chimney Rock, NC, located east of Asheville, has been decimated by catastrophic flooding caused by Tropical Storm Helene. Search and rescue efforts are underway as the town has been virtually wiped out, with buildings washed away and debris clogging all entry routes.
Chimney Rock Reduced to Rubble
Residents in the nearby resort town of Lake Lure describe the devastation in Chimney Rock as complete. Tracey Stevens, a former employee at the now-destroyed Chimney Rock brewery, stated, “Everything along the river is gone. What was once a town is now a river.” The sheer scale of destruction is difficult to comprehend, with the town’s infrastructure and landmarks reduced to debris.
Search and Rescue Efforts Hampered by Debris
Access to Chimney Rock remains blocked as crews work tirelessly to clear debris from homes and businesses. While official reports on fatalities are pending, residents in Lake Lure express concern for friends in Chimney Rock who remain unaccounted for. The extent of the damage makes search and rescue operations challenging and time-sensitive.
Lake Lure Suffers Extensive Damage
The flooding has also significantly impacted Lake Lure. Drone footage reveals widespread damage, with the once-clear lake now filled with murky brown water and debris. Homes surrounding the lake have sustained significant damage, and downed trees and power lines pose additional hazards. Lake Lure’s pier, police station, and town hall have been destroyed, highlighting the storm’s widespread impact.
Residents Anxious About Pets and Property
Residents are eager to return to their homes to assess the damage and check on their pets. Many areas remain inaccessible due to safety concerns, including the risk of a failing bridge. Cathy Maddox, a Lake Lure resident, expressed her desperation to reach her four pets, who have been trapped in her home for over 27 hours. The flooding has not only caused property damage but also significant emotional distress for residents.
Environmental Concerns Mount
Beyond the immediate damage, concerns are rising about the long-term environmental impact of the flooding. The water in Lake Lure is contaminated with sewage and propane, rendering it unsafe for swimming and raising concerns about the lake’s ecosystem. The extent of the environmental damage will require further assessment and remediation efforts.
The flooding caused by Tropical Storm Helene has left a trail of destruction in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, North Carolina. The recovery process will be long and arduous, and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed. The immediate focus remains on search and rescue efforts and providing support to displaced residents.
