Rutherford County in western North Carolina this week debunked two misinformation spread in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen.
Rutherford County Emergency Management is aware of some misinformation circulating on social media regarding the situation at Chimney Rock. “We want to directly address these rumors to ensure the public has accurate information,” the mountain said in a statement posted on social media. A town destroyed by the powerful debris of a hurricane.
The agency said rumors that a “special meeting” was being held to discuss federal, state and local governments occupying Chimney Rock, North Carolina, following severe hurricane damage are “completely false.”
However, Chimney Rock, located approximately 32 miles southeast of Asheville, North Carolina, suffered significant damage from the storm.
Death toll rises as North Carolina reels from Helen's devastation: 'We've never seen anything like this'
Debris is seen in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen in the village of Chimney Rock in western North Carolina. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
“Everything along the river is gone,” said Tracy Stevens of the destroyed Chimney Rock Brewing Company. Asheville Citizen Times. “What was once a town is now a river. It's unimaginable.”
The Office of Emergency Management also clarified a false rumor that there were “bodies everywhere” in town.
“Sadly, two deaths have been confirmed as a result of the storm. Claims of 'bodies everywhere' are completely unfounded,” the official said. “Our emergency services and specialist contractors are working tirelessly to remove debris and keep residents safe and we will continue to provide support to those affected.”
Hurricane Helen: North Carolinians fight to survive as essential goods run out
The agency announced Friday that more than 800 people have been found safe across the county “thanks to the diligent efforts of the Sheriff's Office and FBI teams to identify all missing persons.”
Homes are seen in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen in Chimney Rock, North Carolina, on Wednesday. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
More than 200 people have been evacuated from Chimney Rock and nearby Lake Lure, and more than 13,000 people in the county remain without power.
The agency said residents of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure can now return to their homes, but “will need to show proof of residency at designated checkpoints. Crossing the bridge into Chimney Rock will not be possible. It is strictly prohibited.Currently, no traffic is allowed in Lake Lure Town Center.” Please drive slowly and carefully as power crews and cleaning crews are actively working in the area near Lake Lure Beach and beyond. ”
Businesses are seen in a debris field in Chimney Rock, North Carolina. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
As of late Friday, the death toll from the hurricane had reached 230 since Helen made landfall in Florida last week, with most of the deaths occurring in North Carolina and South Carolina.
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Hundreds of people remain missing.
