Why Did North Carolina Flood so Bad

Hurricane Helene Hit North Carolina

Hurricane Helene is now in the records of one of the most deadly storms to hit the United States in the last 50 years and the majority of the death toll so far comes from flooding and the resulting devastation caused by it in Western North Carolina.

The storm has claimed more than 230 lives, with about half reportedly coming from communities across Western North Carolina. And that number keeps rising as the search continues for those still missing.

Helene hit Western North Carolina as a tropical storm on Friday, Sept. 27, bringing inches of rain to an already saturated area causing rivers to burst from their banks, flooding communities and sometimes sweeping them downriver to become hazardous debris.

Helene was a fast-moving storm, but when it hit the mountains this orographic effect took place, according to University of South Carolina Geography Professor Cary Mock, who studies hurricane history as a geographer and climatologist.

"Normally, fast-moving storms are less of a rain hazard, but Helene was a big exception. In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, Helene's rain was enhanced by the terrain and what's known as orographic uplift. When a storm is forced to rise up a mountainside, the air cools and condenses, dropping more precipitation."

Hurricane Damage Restoration in North Carolina

Hurricane damage restoration involves several key steps to ensure your property is safe and habitable again. Here's a general approach:

1. Immediate Safety Measures

Assess Safety: First, ensure everyone is safe. Avoid entering buildings with structural damage, and wait until local authorities declare the area safe.

Turn Off Utilities: If flooding or major damage occurred, turn off gas, water, and electricity to prevent further risks.

2. Inspection and Documentation

Professional Inspection: Hire a certified restoration contractor to assess the damage to your roof, walls, foundation, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

Insurance Documentation: Document the damage with photos and notes for your insurance claim. If possible, work with a public adjuster to ensure proper coverage and fair compensation.

3. Water Damage Mitigation

Floodwater Removal: If flooding occurred, begin water extraction as soon as possible to prevent mold and structural damage. Use commercial-grade pumps and dehumidifiers.

Drying and Dehumidification: Dry all areas thoroughly using the restoration dehumidifier, fan for water damage, and ventilation systems to prevent mold growth. PREAIR is a professional dehumidifier manufacturer. If you own a restoration company and want to find efficient dehumidifiers for restoration, please contact us at any time.

4. Structural Repairs

Roof Repairs: Inspect the roof for missing shingles, leaks, or structural damage. Emergency roof tarping may be needed to prevent further water intrusion until repairs can be made.

Board Up Windows and Doors: Secure any broken windows and doors with plywood or other materials to prevent looting and further weather exposure.

5. Mold Prevention and Remediation

Mold Inspection: Hire a certified mold remediation company to inspect and remove any mold or mildew that may have grown due to the moisture.

Preventative Measures: After remediation, apply anti-microbial treatments and ensure proper ventilation to prevent future mold growth.

6. Restoration and Rebuilding

Contractor Hiring: Work with experienced contractors to rebuild damaged areas. Ensure they have experience with hurricane restoration to properly handle specialized repairs, especially to roofing, siding, and foundations.

Permits: Make sure to obtain the necessary permits for any structural rebuilding or major repairs.

7. Insurance and Government Assistance

File Insurance Claims: Work with your insurance company to file claims for repairs and replacements. This may include your homeowner's insurance, flood insurance, and even FEMA assistance if eligible.

FEMA Assistance: If your home is uninhabitable, you may qualify for FEMA grants to help with temporary housing and repairs.

8. Clean-Up and Disposal

Debris Removal: Remove any debris, fallen trees, and damaged materials from the property. Use proper disposal methods to avoid contamination of local environments.

Clean Salvageable Items: Clean and disinfect salvageable items such as furniture, documents, and appliances to remove contaminants and reduce the risk of mold.

9. Final Inspections

Final Walkthrough: Conduct a final inspection with the contractor to ensure all repairs meet standards. Make sure all damage has been addressed and that the property is structurally sound.

10. Long-Term Preparedness

Mitigation: After restoration, consider investing in flood barriers, reinforced windows, or hurricane-resistant roofing to minimize future risks.

Hurricane damage restoration can be a lengthy and complex process, so working with certified restoration professionals and keeping clear communication with your insurance provider is essential to a smooth recovery.