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The National Weather Service issued a serious warning on Friday, September 27, for residents in North Carolina living near the Lake Lure Dam, located approximately 30 miles from Asheville. This alert comes in response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida on Thursday, September 26, and is now moving northward. Residents in the Carolinas are facing evacuation orders as the storm continues to wreak havoc.
Did the Lake Lure Dam Collapse?
As of the time of this report, the dam has not experienced a failure. However, the NWS has declared that a dam failure is “imminent,” urging nearby residents to evacuate the area immediately. “Urgent: Flash flood emergency for the Lake Lure Dam! Dam failure imminent!” the NWS communicated via X. “Residents below the dam need to evacuate to higher ground without delay.”
What Led to Concerns Over the Lake Lure Dam?
Although no breach has occurred yet, residents are facing the threat of catastrophic damage and potential injury if they choose to remain in the vicinity. In a separate tweet, the NWS cautioned that flooding and other dangers from Hurricane Helene’s aftermath could have lasting effects. “Even though Helene has passed, hazards from flooding, downed trees and power lines, and power outages will unfortunately persist for several days,” the NWS stated. “Now is NOT the time to let your guard down. Nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm has passed.”
Where Are the Flash Flood Warnings in North Carolina?
Flash flood warnings have been issued for several counties in North Carolina, including Person, Alamance, Orange, Durham, Chatham, Wake, Johnston, Moore, Lee, Harnett, Hoke, Cumberland, and Sampson, according to Fox 8.
Is Asheville Experiencing River Flooding?
According to the National Water Prediction, current flooding has reached a “record flood stage.” “This is the highest stage recorded for the French Broad River at Asheville since monitoring began in October 1895,” an alert from the NWP reported. “Severe flooding of the surrounding areas of the French Broad River Valley is expected.”
Earlier flood advisories have been issued for regions affected by the French Broad River flooding, including Madison County, Transylvania County, Henderson County, and Buncombe County.