Helene causes dam collapse and flooding in Tennessee

As Helene moved eastward from the southeastern United States, it brought torrential rains and strong winds, exacerbating existing flood conditions and threatening multiple dams. In Tennessee, the Nolichucky Dam experienced an imminent breach, prompting urgent evacuation orders for nearby communities. Meanwhile, in North Carolina, the Waterville Dam faced catastrophic failure, leading to similar evacuations. The aftermath of the storm has seen widespread destruction, with record rainfall recorded in cities such as Atlanta and Asheville, and significant power outages affecting millions. As recovery efforts begin, officials are assessing the extensive damage and working to restore infrastructure and services to affected areas.

Flooding and Evacuations

• Nolichucky Dam Collapse: The National Weather Service issued warnings about the imminent breach of the Nolichucky Dam, leading to emergency evacuations in the surrounding areas. Fortunately, updates indicated that the dam remained intact as of Saturday morning.

• Waterville Dam Failure: In North Carolina, the Waterville Dam was reported to have suffered a catastrophic failure, prompting the evacuation of Newport, Tennessee. Emergency services worked diligently to ensure residents were moved to safety as the Pigeon River faced major flooding.

Impact of Hurricane Helene

• Casualties and Damage: The storm has resulted in at least 52 confirmed deaths across several states, with drowning and storm-related incidents being the primary causes. The economic impact is projected to be substantial, with estimates ranging from $15 billion to $30 billion in property damage.

• Power Outages: Over three million people were without electricity as of Saturday, with South Carolina experiencing the highest number of outages. Emergency crews are working to restore power and clear roadways blocked by debris.

Ongoing Risks

Despite the storm’s peak intensity passing, the risk of flooding remains high as water levels continue to rise in affected areas. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders as necessary. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is also tracking other weather systems, including Tropical Storm Joyce, which could further complicate recovery efforts.