Officials Warn of Impending Failure of Lake Lure Dam

As Tropical Storm Helene weakens, it continues to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the Southeast U.S., causing havoc in North Carolina. Rutherford County’s Emergency Management ordered evacuations for residents living on certain roads due to water overtopping the Lake Lure Dam, with officials warning of an imminent dam failure. Flood warnings have been issued for several counties in Western North Carolina, with catastrophic flooding predicted. Tragic incidents, including a fatal wreck in Catawba County and a storm-related death in Charlotte, have been reported. The National Weather Service warned of the potential for significant flooding and high winds in the region, urging residents to take the storm seriously. Before making landfall, Hurricane Helene’s outer rain band was expected to bring additional rainfall to the area. The situation remains dangerous, with officials stressing the importance of following evacuation orders and taking precautions to stay safe during the storm. Photos of the flooding in Western North Carolina highlight the extent of the damage caused by the severe weather conditions.

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