Emergency shelter opened in Alexander County as more water flows through Oxford Dam

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ALEXANDER COUNTY, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) — An emergency shelter has been opened for those living along the Catawba River and downstream of Oxford Dam, the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office reports.

Around 7 p.m. officials said that the county had already gotten over 5 inches of rain at the Emergency Management office in Taylorsville.,

In order to control lake levels, Duke Energy is planning to open more floodgates at the Oxford Dam, which could lead to the Highway 16 South bridge being closed.

The emergency shelter has been set up at the Wittenburg Fire Department for families living downstream of the dam.

Deputies are working to serve eviction notices for several roads:

• Fred Jolly Lane
• River Shoals Ridge Drive
• Mountaire Drive, Carl Fox Road
• Perry Fox Lane
• Olive Road
• Grasshopper Circle
• Stewart Rock Road

Those living on these roads are asked to stay with family, friends or at the shelter. Officials will determine if a second, larger shelter is needed.

Issues with high water have been reported in several areas including Liledoun Road near Sipe Road, Robinette Road, Highway 127 near Devil’s Track Road, and Heavenly Acres Lane.

On Friday, county offices will run on a two-hour delay, and Rock Face Park will be closed. Residents with questions can call 828-352-7817.

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