Power restored in parts of Black Mountain as officials assess water and sewage services
Town staff works to keep pace with ‘rapidly changing situation’
Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
October 1, 2024
The Town of Black Mountain holds a daily meeting in town square in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, as electricity is restored in parts of downtown, as water and sewer services remain non-operational. Photo by Fred McCormick
A “rapidly changing situation” in the Town of Black Mountain is prompting daily meetings, at 3 p.m., in town square.
While electricity has been restored to parts of the town, a timeframe to repair water and sewage infrastructure, in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, remains unclear.
The town’s public works department is working today to access the water treatment plant to perform a damage assessment, according to an Oct. 1 press release. Water restoration within Black Mountain will be dependent on the North Fork water line, which suffered significant damage during Tropical Storm Helene.
“Late yesterday evening, power was restored to portions of downtown Black Mountain. The majority of Black Mountain, Montreat and Ridgecrest remain without power,” the release stated. “Power restoration will occur as lines are cleared. With the restoration of power to the downtown area, several local gas stations have been able to reopen today. Shipments of fuel into the area are limited and inconsistent. We encourage you to conserve fuel as much as possible.”
The Black Mountain Fire Department has checked the majority of houses in Black Mountain, Montreat and Ridgecrest for stranded residents. Operations are now shifting to return to damaged residences to mitigate fire risks, as power begins to be restored.
“This afternoon, east and westbound lanes of I-40 opened between Ridgecrest and Old Fort. I-26 east remains open to S.C.,” the press release read. “The BMPD will have officers at exits off I-40 limiting access to residents and support services (including donations). Limiting access will ensure public safety for citizens due to the extensive hazards associated with storm damage.”
Food and drinking water will be allocated daily, from 9 a.m - 7 p.m., at the Black Mountain Ingles (550 N.C. 9).
“Hot meals will be served starting at lunchtime today and will be available for residents for lunch and dinner at the food and water distribution site,” according to the press release. “There are many community organizations also distributing hot meals including area churches, restaurants and non-profit organizations.”
Public restrooms (port-a-johns) are available at the Visitor Center/Chamber of Commerce parking lot at 201 East State Street.
We encourage you to utilize NC 211, who can provide assistance to those who may be looking for someone. Local officials encourage people to dial 2-1-1, or 1-888-892-1162 or go to nc211.org. People are encouraged to go to unitedwaync.org to fill out a request form and to add them to the search and rescue efforts.