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March 19, 2024

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Governor Cooper & Senator Tillis visit Haywood

Senator Tom Tillis surveys the damage in Canton, NC.

Between Wednesday and Thursday, Over 200 search and rescues missions were accomplished in Haywood County by hundreds of Swift Water rescue and fire departments from all over the state of North Carolina. 2 confirmed fatalities have been reported so far in their efforts.

Around 20 people are still missing as of Thursday evening. Rescue efforts continue with crews from multiple agencies.  Cell phone triangulation is helping to possibly locate missing individuals. 10+ bridges were damaged in the Cruso community hindering people from re-entering the area by vechicle.

Local and state entities is working to provide hotel rooms for the misplaced residence.

Governor Cooper said the state wanted to get a major disaster declaration to allow for funding and more resources. The declaration would depend on the final assessments currently being done.

Cooper said when the community builds back, building back resiliently would be key using the latest structural codes and materials.

Canton Mayor Zeb Smather’s said Gov. Cooper and state officials were working well together to provide immediate needs. Such as bottled water, food and cleaning supplies.

Smathers stated that the Canton Town Hall, Fire Department and Dispatch Center were destroyed along with the New Pisgah High School Turf Football Field.

A new helpline is in place for anyone seeking assistance related to the storm. The helpline number is 828-356-2022. The hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Types of assistance available through the helpline:

  • Missing person information
  • Food, housing assistance
  • Special needs assistance
  • Volunteer or donation opportunities
  • Other storm-related needs

Residents with immediate, life-threatening needs, should call 911, otherwise use this number for all other needs.

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