Newland Community Struggles with Power Outages Following Hurricane Helene

Newland Faces Power Struggles Post-Hurricane Helene

Here we are in Newland, where the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is still causing quite a stir. As of today, October 26, 2024, around 125 members of the community are still navigating life without power. We all know how critical electricity is, especially in challenging weather, and it’s heart-wrenching to see so many families coping without it.

Crews on the Go

Thankfully, service crews, along with outside contractors, are working diligently to rectify the situation. You can spot them out and about in areas like Calhoun Hollow, Altamont Acres, Buckeye Rd, and Booger Hollow. They are tirelessly working on secondary lines and replacing broken poles that could potentially cause even more outages if they were to fall. It’s no small task, but these folks are steadfast in their mission.

One significant challenge comes from the extensive damage done to the underground infrastructure. This has turned out to be quite time-consuming to fix, with crews continuously finding more issues that were possibly hidden under the surface.

Meadows at Land Harbor – A Special Inspection Situation

An important update for those in the Meadows at Land Harbor: Avery County inspectors have mandated that every house in this area undergo an inspection before power can be restored. This comes as a precaution, as many meter bases here have faced flooding, complicating the restoration efforts. So, if you’re in this area, it’s crucial to stay patient as this process unfolds.

A Silver Lining for Mountain City

Looking over at the Mountain City service area, the news is somewhat brighter. Most members should have their power back on; if you’re still without it, it may be due to an isolated issue. If you find yourself in the dark, make sure to report it by calling 423-727-1800. Every little bit helps in keeping the lines of communication open.

Hopeful Signs in Roan Mountain

Over in the Roan Mountain district, it seems like the recovery efforts are piecing together quite successfully. All Roan Mountain members are expected to have power restored. However, if you’re not receiving electricity and haven’t reported your absence of power, please call the Roan Mountain office at 423-772-3521. They’re on the ground, working to ensure everyone is accounted for.

Safety First

For those with essential medical needs such as oxygen or dialysis, please take care and seek refuge in one of the local emergency shelters. They’re equipped to help and can provide not just a warm place but also essential needs while power is being restored to homes across the areas.

A Friendly Reminder

It’s entirely understandable to feel frustrated being without power during these challenging times, but do know that help is on the way! As General Manager Rodney Metcalf from Mountain Electric Cooperative noted, the teams are working incredibly hard to bring back electricity as swiftly and safely as possible. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at 423-727-1810 or via email.

Need Heating Fuels and More?

For those who find themselves in need of heating fuels or propane, there’s help close by! Showrooms with gas logs, water heaters, and more are located in each Blue Ridge Energy district office. Locations include:

• Boone: 2491 US Hwy 421 S, 828-264-3521
• W. Jefferson: 2375 Hwy. 163, 336-846-2421
• Lenoir: 100 Cooperative Way, 828-758-4401
• Sparta: 1889 Hwy. 21 S, 336-372-1742

As we move forward in recovery, let’s keep our neighbors in mind and support each other when we can. It’s a tough road ahead, but together we can weather any storm!