Catasphoric. Tragedy. Cataclysm. Unfathomable.
No words accurately describe the events that unfolded in our county and region on Friday – no matter how hard you try.
Not. A. Single. Word.
The damage and wrath that Helene brought to Northeast Tennessee and Western North Carolina is absolutely heartbreaking and terrifying. The stories of people’s escapes and the damage is horrific, and we are going to hear more over the coming days as emergency personnel reach more and more of those stranded.
Our communities need thoughts and prayers, and we also need real help.
It is going to be months if not years for recovery and help will be needed then. However, the immediate needs now are immense and simply mind boggling.
For our Carter County communities, the devastation isn’t just from the horrific flooding as the wind was just as devasting as we look at lengthy power outages, infrastructure destroyed, losses of life, and just absolute devastation.
Water and food are immediate needs as well as clothing and supplies.
Frankly, our communities just need help.
It is no secret that Carter County takes care of its own – we see each and every time an athletic team has incredible postseason success – and we know this will be no different. However, our community is hurting badly and needs all the help we can get.
Last Friday, it was heartbreaking to be sending updates on safety and being sure our friends and family were safe – when we had cell coverage – instead of our normal Friday night update texts.
We will see a new normal over the coming weeks, and it is going to be absolutely heartbreaking.
For information on donations, please visit Elizabethton City Schools Facebook, Happy Valley High School, Hampton – Valley Forge Fire Department Facebook, First Baptist Church – Roan Mountain.