Latest on Rutherford Co. recovery efforts, search for missing people

RUTHERFORD COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA) – The Rutherford County Emergency Management has provided a new update regarding the county’s status following Helene’s impact on September 27.

According to the Rutherford County EOC, 968 individuals have been located and confirmed safe, there are 80 active missing person investigations and 3 total deceased in Rutherford County.

To report a missing person, email EOC@rutherfordcountync.gov.

Power outage updates for Rutherford County:

• 5,190 customers with Duke Energy are without power, and 80.4% have had power restored.
• 2,035 customers with Rutherford Electric are without power, and 69.3% of customers have had power restored.
• All customers with Forest City Electric have power restored.

Supply deliveries will be at the Central Distribution Site at 241 Vance Street, Warehouse 7, in Forest City. Those in need of deliveries for Sunday can take trailers to this location.

24 individuals are currently housed at the emergency shelter.

For residents near Chimney Rock Village, an emergency pass system is in place for essential personnel, including the fire department and village officials. No passes have been issued to residents.

Through traffic is currently restricted in the Lake Lure Town Center, near the Lake Lure Beach. Residents may return home but must show proof of residency at designated checkpoints.

Residents who are in need of FEMA assistance can visit their website . If residents are in need of in-person assistance, you can visit these locations from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.:

• Lake Lure Baptist Church , 6837 US-74 ALT, in Lake Lure
• Ingles in Lake Lure , 276 NC-9, in Lake Lure
• Rutherford County Library , 255 Callahan Koon Road, in Spindale
• Hanes Branch Library , 2669 US-221A Highway, in Mooresboro

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