Lincolnton, NC — September 27, 2024 — A severe storm powered by the remnants of Hurricane Helene hit Lincolnton and the surrounding Lincoln County areas early this morning, causing extensive damage and leaving thousands without power. High winds and heavy rainfall wreaked havoc, uprooting trees, downing power lines and flooding rivers, creeks and streams.

The storm arrived before dawn, leaving many roads blocked and causing widespread power outages. Emergency services have been working tirelessly to clear debris and restore electricity to the thousands of residents without power. Long lines have formed at the few gas stations and resturants that remain operational.

The storm passed through the area by around 11:30 a.m., leaving a trail of destruction behind. Lincoln County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Cathy Davis declared a State of Emergency at 10:15 a.m., followed by a similar declaration for the City of Lincolnton by Mayor Ed Hatley at 11:30 a.m. These emergency declarations allow local officials to coordinate recovery efforts more effectively.

Emergency services have activated the county’s Emergency Operations Center and are urging residents to remain home unless absolutely necessary due to dangerous road conditions caused by downed trees, power lines and flooding.

For those displaced or in need of assistance, Lincoln County has opened an emergency shelter at Lincolnton Middle School, located at 2361 Startown Road. Residents with storm-related damage to their homes are asked to report it by emailing Lincoln County Emergency Management at stormdamage@lincolncountync.gov.

With several intersections still without power, drivers are advised to treat these areas as four-way stops and proceed with caution. As cleanup continues, officials ask the community to remain patient and prioritize safety.

The full extent of the damage is still being assessed but emergency personnel continue to work around the clock to restore normalcy to the area.