| Flooding from torrential downpours caused havoc throughout Catawba County and caused fire and rescue crews to be forced into overdrive to assist their local communities. An estimate of 8 – 10 inches of rain fell in a short amount of time Saturday morning. There were several reports throughout the county of people trapped in their homes and some in vehicles by rushing water. Bridges and roadways were completely submerged with water as creeks started rising and swelling with rushing water overflowing their banks. The creeks increased by several feet of water in a short amount of time causing strong currents and rushing water. Catawba County sustained widespread damage. Approx. 50 – 60 roads were closed in Catawba County and some include major roads that may be closed for up to six months. Some portions of roads were washed away, bridges were damaged, and some sink holes have formed as a result of the flooding. Some homes at this time are not accessible for emergency responders. Emergency services are working swiftly with local, state, and federal authorities to regain access to several communities. A state of Emergency has been declared for Catawba County. At this time there are no reports of serious injuries but several water rescues took place throughout the county and several homeowners have been displaced from their homes.
During this encounter with Mother Nature, St. Stephens Fire responded to a total of 11 weather related incidents. These incidents took place during a six hour period. The incidents included one traffic accident, one tree across a mobile home with extreme damage, three water rescues, and six calls related to flooding and rising water. Several streets in the St. Stephens community have been closed due to the damage from the rushing water and bridges being compromised. The streets closed at this time are Snow Creek Rd, Sulphur Springs Rd, Pine crest Dr, 24th St Pl NE (Hickory Woods), and 46th Ave Dr NE (Forest Creek Estates). Officials are working to get the roads repaired and opened as soon as possible but no time estimate has been given. Please remember to be patient and to obey all traffic signs. Do not attempt to drive through barricades that have been set in place. These warning devices are provided for your safety and to establish boundaries for a safe area. In an emergency situation the appropriate agency will respond at your time of need, however, the response time may be delayed due to the unexpected obstacle provided by Mother Nature. Please remember that no call for service in the St. Stephens Community will go unanswered. During the times when natural disasters may occur, please keep in mind that there will be several emergencies going on all at once. The 911 communication center is extremely busy along will all emergency personnel. Most resources are exhausted in the community and the calls have to be prioritized. |
