Severe Flooding Leads To Multiple Counties Declaring State Of Emergency

Catawba and Burke counties have declared a State of Emergency after torrential rain caused severe flooding and power outages across parts of North Carolina. According to WCNC, Little Sugar Creek in nearby Mecklenburg County has risen to 15.2 feet and counting, surpassing the record set during Hurricane Danny in 1997.

"The declaration enables Catawba County Emergency Services to implement coordinated response and recovery efforts in all affected unincorporated areas of the county in alignment with the Catawba County Emergency Operations Plan an in collaboration with emergency response partners," said county leaders.

Alexander, Hickory, and Catawba county schools announced that Thursday would be a remote learning day for students and staff.

"We have hazardous road conditions, flash flooding, and power outages now being reported across our county," district officials wrote. "Our goal is for teachers to post assignments by 9:30 a.m. and students are expected to complete their assignments."

Emergency crews have responded to multiple calls for swift water rescues. Early Thursday morning, at least 30 people were rescued from rising waters at the Hiddenite Family Campground in Alexander County.

WCNC reports that Charlotte and surrounding areas are under a flash flood watch until Thursday night, with heavy rain continuing until Friday morning.

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