Massive tree falls on Gastonia man’s home

With the wet ground and high winds as Tropical Storm Helene moves out of the Charlotte area, we’re seeing quite a few trees down.

Multiple rescued from flooding Friday morning as Helene barrels toward Carolinas

A massive one fell on Joshua Drum’s home in Gastonia.

>> In the video at the top of the page, the homeowner told Channel 9′s Ken Lemon he thought an earthquake hit when it came down.

Authorities in Gaston County said they’re moving their emergency shelter to Belmont Middle School at 1020 South Point Road in Belmont.

The county said as of 3 p.m. Friday, there were widespread power outages across the county, with nearly two-thirds of customers without power. Nearly all of Gaston County’s libraries are affected by the outages and will be closed on Saturday.

Several recycling center convenience sites had to close Friday due to power outages, but landfill and convenience sites should be open Saturday.

Anyone with non-emergency concerns or needs can use GCOEMFS’ email or phone hotlines at GastonIncidentInfo@GastonGov.com or 704-862-6281. Reserve 911 for true life-threatening emergencies.

(WATCH BELOW: Tropical Storm Helene: 1 dead in Charlotte after tree falls on home)