News from the South - North Carolina News Feed

Helene's long-term impact will depend on next governor

Published

5 months ago

November 4, 2024

www.youtube.com – WRAL – 2024-11-04 20:03:57

SUMMARY: One month after Hurricane Helen devastated Swananoa, the community faces significant challenges. Resident Daniel Wright is working to rebuild his home while struggling with the loss of clean drinking water. Emergency relief efforts continue, but threats such as hypothermic deaths and landslides remain. Governor Roy Cooper has proposed a $3.9 billion rebuilding package, with the state contributing $600 million thus far. Local leaders emphasize the need for ongoing support, particularly for small businesses and housing. They urge the federal government to assist the community, which has many displaced individuals still in hotels. Donations can be made through safe beacon village.org.

For many who are still digging out and rebuilding after Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina, the need will extend into the term of the next governor. (Samantha Hoffman, UNC Media Hub)

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News from the South - North Carolina News Feed

Western NC fire is now highest priority in the country

Published

6 hours ago

March 28, 2025

Staff Editor

www.youtube.com – WRAL – 2025-03-28 08:07:43

SUMMARY: A wildfire in Western North Carolina has become the highest priority in the U.S. The Black Cove Complex fire near Saluda has burned over 6,500 acres, with over 500 firefighters working to contain it. Authorities warn residents in mountain communities, like Buncombe County, to prepare evacuation bags in case orders are issued. The fire has triggered statewide concerns, with varying levels of fire danger across the state. A statewide burn ban is in effect, and officials are hopeful that rain expected this weekend will help control the blaze. Aircraft are being used to drop water and fire retardant to assist firefighting efforts.

More firefighters are arriving in Western North Carolina now that the Fire Service says a fire burning there is now the highest priority in the U.S.

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News from the South - North Carolina News Feed

Tar Heel Traveler: Elm City Birds

Published

17 hours ago

March 27, 2025

Staff Editor

www.youtube.com – WRAL – 2025-03-27 20:33:11

SUMMARY: In late March 1963, Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller *The Birds* premiered, and in honor of its anniversary, Scott Mason revisits Elm City’s own bird phenomenon. Every afternoon, flocks of hundreds of thousands of starlings and blackbirds gather, creating a stunning, synchronized spectacle. The birds swarm the same fields at the same time, a behavior observed for over 20 years. Local residents are captivated by the sight, though some remain curious about the birds’ nature. Experts believe the birds flock for food and protection. This “bird ballet” continues to awe those lucky enough to witness it each day.

It was around this time in March 1963 when the movie “The Birds” premiered. The Tar Heel Traveler revisits Elm City’s very own thrilling version of the birds.

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News from the South - North Carolina News Feed

Some Rocky Mount businesses still recovering 6 months after tornado

Published

18 hours ago

March 27, 2025

Staff Editor

www.youtube.com – ABC11 – 2025-03-27 19:30:18

SUMMARY: Six months after an EF3 tornado struck Rocky Mount, businesses are still recovering. Debris and crime tape remain evident, with some buildings like a Chinese restaurant and an auto repair shop left in ruins. Construction is ongoing, including for a dental office that was already scheduled for renovations when the tornado hit. Local business owners faced significant financial setbacks during the lengthy recovery, but some are excited to reopen. Community members have shown generosity, offering support to those in need. Overall, the area is slowly rebuilding after experiencing two tornadoes in quick succession.