Western NC counties respond to impacts from Isaias’ remnants

Key Points:

• Remnants of Hurricane Isaias are causing heavy rain, gusty winds, power outages, and flooding across western North Carolina, with multiple counties under Flood Watches and Flash Flood Warnings through Sunday morning.
• Duke Energy crews are actively working to restore power amid downed trees and broken power poles, but hazardous road conditions and high winds are delaying repairs in areas like Buncombe and McDowell counties.
• Emergency management officials have activated swift water rescue teams and opened emergency shelters, urging residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas to seek higher ground and follow evacuation orders.
• Significant flooding and landslides have been reported, including road closures, a landslide on NC-226A in McDowell County, and rising river levels near Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, prompting flash flood sirens and warnings for residents to stay alert.
• High Wind Warnings are in effect for mountainous regions above 3,500 feet, with gusts up to 60 mph expected, increasing risks of additional damage and complicating emergency response efforts.