At 9:00 AM this morning, Burke County officials were briefed on the anticipated severe weather event expected to hit the region over the next 36 hours. Forecasts indicate 6 to 14 inches of rainfall, with conditions expected to be worse than previous storms such as Hurricane Ivan and Frances.
Officials continue to remind community members to practice precaution and do not drive through standing water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Key Points:
Storm Impact: The county is currently experiencing significant runoff (inflow) from nearby rivers and lakes, with heavy rains expected to persist until midday Friday. Hurricane-force winds will begin this afternoon and are expected to last for 24 to 36 hours. Sustained winds of around 30 mph are forecasted, with gusts exceeding 60 mph between 10:00 PM tonight and 10:00 AM tomorrow.
Water Concerns: While wind damage is a concern, the primary threat is water. County Emergency Management Director Mike Willis has expressed significant concern over potential flooding, particularly around the Bridgewater, Rhodhiss, and Lookout Shoals dams. All are expected to flood and are being constantly monitored.
Evacuations & Closures: County emergency teams have already evacuated families in the Linville area, and models are being built to facilitate further evacuations in areas at risk of dam overflow or road blockages. Residents near the Catawba River should expect flooding in Morganton, with potential road closures this afternoon.
All County Essential functions will remain operational.
Solid waste convenience sites and the county landfill closed at noon today, September 26th, 2024, and will remain closed through Friday, September 27th, 2024. Convenience sites and the county landfill will reopen during normal business hours on Saturday, September 28th, 2024.
Updates on closures will be available on the county website.
Emergency Services: All County emergency services are activated with ongoing planning and communication. Please do not contact 911 for power outages.
Other Key Updates:
Property Damage & Assessments: Following the storm, county officials will begin assessing personal property storm damage across all areas of Burke County.
Duke Energy Reports: Duke Energy is reporting rainfall projections of 6-10 inches, with spillage from Lookout Shoals Dam reaching 108 feet. Flooding at Bridgewater is at 108 feet and Rhodhiss is at 112 feet. Oxford Dam is already operating at full gate capacity.
Officials urge residents to take all necessary precautions, stay updated on weather conditions, and heed evacuation orders if necessary. The county’s next official storm update call is scheduled for 4:30 PM today and up-to-date information will be provided by 6 PM.
For updates, visit the Burke County website and stay tuned to local news outlets. For live coverage, visit https://www.readync.gov/