Exclusive details: Three dead, hundreds confirmed safe as Hurricane Helene leaves devastation in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Local and state emergency services push forward in rescue and recovery efforts as thousands remain without power, plus Cops & Congress commentary
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In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating blow, the towns of Lake Lure and Chimney Rock are grappling with the aftermath of one of the most destructive storms to hit the region in decades. As of today, thousands remain without power. The storm has claimed the lives of at least three people, Rutherford County emergency management said. Helene's historic deluge that ravaged the Southeast has reportedly killed more than 200 people.
“Over 800 individuals have been confirmed safe thanks to the diligent efforts of the Sheriff’s Office and the FBI team working to verify all missing persons. There are 71 active welfare checks in progress. To report a missing person, please email EOC@rutherfordcountync.gov,” officials said.
The hurricane brought unprecedented rainfall and severe winds, causing flash floods, landslides, and massive power outages across Rutherford County. Chimney Rock, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning views and hiking trails, was nearly destroyed by the force of the storm. “Approximately 200 people have been evacuated from Lake Lure and Chimney Rock,” officials said Friday. The small town is now littered with debris, fallen trees, and damaged infrastructure.
Search and Rescue Operations in Full Force
In a press release issued by the Town of Lake Lure on the evening of October 3, officials outlined the extensive ongoing rescue efforts. Local, state, and national agencies are coordinating to manage search-and-rescue missions, with many residents trapped in their homes by floodwaters and blocked roads.
“We’ve made tremendous progress,” the statement said. “Firefighters are going door-to-door, making rescues in the most affected areas. Many of these operations are being carried out on foot or via helicopter, as vehicles cannot access certain areas.”
The National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART), and the Army Corps of Engineers are all on the ground, working alongside local emergency services. Lake Lure Fire Department and other local fire departments are leading many of the rescue efforts, especially in remote or heavily impacted areas.
Despite the challenging conditions, authorities remain hopeful that the worst is behind them. “We are grateful for the many lives that have been saved so far, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have been most affected by this destructive storm,” the statement said.
Widespread Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage
More than 13,500 residents remain without power across Rutherford County as Duke Energy and Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation (REMC) crews work around the clock to restore service. Crews have made some progress in the Hickory Nut Gorge area, but officials warn that power restoration may take longer in the hardest-hit areas.
Lake Lure officials urged residents to remain patient and cautious as crews continue to repair downed power lines and clear blocked roads. “Please drive slowly and cautiously in areas where crews are working,” the press release stated, adding that traffic delays will be inevitable as repairs continue.
The town also emphasized that the lake itself remains off-limits due to the massive amount of debris, including propane tanks and gasoline spills, floating in the water. “We’ve placed a boom to contain the debris, but it will be a major task to clean up the lake,” the statement noted.
Dam Safety and Water System Concerns
The structural integrity of the Lake Lure Dam, a key concern for residents, appears to be holding, according to engineers from Schnabel Engineering, who conducted an on-site assessment. “The dam generally performed as intended and is stable,” the engineering firm reported. “There is some damage to the downstream areas, but the concrete structure was not compromised.”
Town officials have implemented a boil water advisory and a no-flush order for residents using the town’s water and sewer systems, as repairs to water infrastructure are still underway. Lake levels are being kept low until the necessary repairs can be completed. The town’s infrastructure, as I’ve previously reported, has had challenges for years.
Debunking Rumors
Rutherford County Emergency Management officials addressed rumors circulating online about more widespread devastation, including unverified claims of numerous bodies found in the area. “These claims of ‘bodies everywhere’ are completely unfounded. We are dealing with a very tragic situation, but these rumors are simply not true,” a statement said.
Officials refuted rumors of government seizure of property in Chimney Rock or Lake Lure. “There was no ‘special meeting’ to discuss seizing the town,” officials said. “Our sole focus right now is on recovery, safety, and providing support to those affected.”
Aid and Resource Centers Established
To assist those impacted by the storm, the Town of Lake Lure has set up a resource center at Ingles on Highway 9. The center provides essential services such as food, showers, restrooms, a charging station, and Wi-Fi, which has been enabled through Starlink. The center is also hosting a mobile health van from Blue Ridge Health.
“We are grateful for the assistance of our community and the numerous volunteers who have stepped up to help,” town officials said. “Meals are served daily, and supplies such as water, non-perishable food items, and toiletries are available.”
Local churches are also providing spiritual and logistical support to affected residents.
Caution Urged as Recovery Continues
Officials are urging non-residents to stay away from the area while recovery efforts continue. “Please do not come to town unless you live here or absolutely need to be here,” Lake Lure officials stated. “This remains an ongoing rescue situation, and the roads are not safe.”
The town also issued a call for financial donations to aid in storm recovery efforts. Donations can be sent to the Town of Lake Lure with checks payable to the town’s storm recovery fund. Rutherford County officials are asking people to donate to United Way of Rutherford or RHI Legacy Foundation.
As search-and-rescue operations wind down, the full extent of the storm’s damage will become clearer. For now, the focus remains on providing aid to those in need and restoring vital services as quickly as possible.
Cops & Congress Commentary: Misguided Rhetoric – Why ‘Stay Away’ Messaging is Wrong for Our Community
In the aftermath of recent natural disasters and infrastructure challenges, there's been an uptick in warnings to "stay away" from areas like Rutherfordton and Lake Lure. While safety is, and should always be, the top priority in a crisis, the rhetoric urging people not to come to these areas can be harmful and misleading. Here’s why: we have freedom of movement in the United States, and after driving on all area roads between Rutherford and Lake Lure since Saturday, I can confidently say this messaging is overblown.
Yes, some roads have been affected, and in a few places, there are lane closures. But despite that, every single road I traveled on was passable. I’ve put more than 300 miles on my car this week in Rutherford, McDowell and Polk counties. Lake Lure, Rutherfordton, and surrounding communities rely heavily on tourism dollars. Telling people to stay away when there are safe ways to navigate the area can further devastate our local economy—one already in a fragile state after the natural disasters we’ve endured.
Rutherford County Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg addressed community concerns last night, clarifying that sheriff deputies will not come in and seize anyone’s property or force anyone to leave their homes. You have the right to decide if you want to self-evacuate. Although a state of emergency is still in effect, Bryan King, Chairman of the County Commissioners, lifted the curfew on Monday, allowing more flexibility for residents and visitors to move freely. The message from our local leaders is clear: while precautions remain in place, there's no intention of forcibly removing people or infringing upon their rights, at least at the county level.
Let me be clear: Safety measures are important. If there are unsafe spots, we trust that local officials and law enforcement will handle those areas responsibly, and people should always heed specific safety warnings. However, discouraging travel entirely from a region that is struggling to get back on its feet isn’t just unwise, it’s economically damaging.
Tourists and visitors aren’t just sightseers; they are a lifeline to many small businesses. In a tourist town that was nearly destroyed, keeping people out through misguided public messaging is the last thing we need. As we rebuild, we should encourage responsible tourism—not isolation. Tell people where they can go safely, show them what parts of our area remain accessible, and let them help show their support by patronizing areas that remain open.
It’s not about downplaying the risks; it’s about being clear-eyed and sensible. While you can’t flush the toilet in some areas, some roads may still need work, but the overall infrastructure in Rutherford County remains sound. The financial need is great, it will continue to be. I will be there reporting the facts on the ground as I have for years. Please support my work and share it broadly. We need to communicate that message to the public, rather than reinforcing fear or avoidance. In a time of need, we should be welcoming those who wish to help and explore responsibly, not pushing them away.
Let’s remember: We have the right to move freely in this country under the constitution. Our local businesses and residents, who are already suffering, need support now more than ever. Instead of deterring people from visiting, we should invite them to witness our resilience firsthand and contribute to the recovery. By doing so, we ensure the survival of our communities—not just physically, but economically as well. There are many ways to volunteer but what is needed now are facts and resiliency.
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