In the wake of Hurricane Helene's wrath, Union County, North Carolina, remains submerged not just in water but in a labyrinth of storm debris entangling its waterways. According to a recent Union County announcement, the county has deployed debris removal contractors to assess the creeks and streams for a cleanup that's imperative for both safety and flood prevention.
While surveyed by contractors commissioned to quantify the chaos left by nature’s unrest, citizens of Union County have been told to stand by. The surveyors, clad in high visibility gear, might soon be a familiar sight until June 1, peeking over private fences and into backyards, as they may occasionally knock to request access, mapping out the necessary steps to restore the waterways.
"Our priority is ensuring our waterways are safe and clear of storm debris," Andrew Ansley, the Director of Union County Emergency Management, conveyed in a statement that echoes the urgency of the situation. The initial stage of surveying, as outlined by the Union County, is critical to establish the aid needed and to expedite the clearing process.
Union County has requested federal help from FEMA to manage the financial costs of the recovery effort. Crews will begin work once surveys are complete, marking the start of recovery. For now, the work is still in the planning stage, and residents are advised to stay prepared.
