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Carter County officials have released their weekly update on disaster assistance resources for residents recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. Below are key updates for the week of Jan. 13, 2025.

Document Processing Centers

FEMA has reopened three locations as Document Processing Centers (DPCs) following the closure of Disaster Resource Centers after the Jan. 7 Individual Assistance registration deadline.

At DPCs, residents can submit documents related to assistance applications, follow up on applications, and appeal decisions. Centers are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Jan. 24.

DPC Locations:

• Carter County: Carter County Public Library, 201 N. Sycamore St., Elizabethton
• Johnson County: National Guard Armory, 923 S. Shady St., Mountain City
• Unicoi County: National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center, 615 S. Main Ave., Erwin

Northeast Tennessee Disaster Relief Center

The Northeast Tennessee Disaster Relief Center at Bristol Motor Speedway is now focusing on outbound deliveries only and will close to all deliveries on Friday, Jan. 17.

Debris Removal

Carter County debris removal services will conclude on Friday, Jan. 17. Residents should place debris in the right-of-way for pickup before this date. To schedule debris removal, email debris@cartercountytn.gov.

Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP)

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has activated EPAP to help uninsured residents replace prescription medicines or medical equipment damaged during the storm. Applications for EPAP have been extended through April 1, 2025. Visit Emergency Prescription Assistance Program for details.

Debris Removal from Waterways

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has contracted Phillips & Jordan, Inc. to remove debris from state waterways. This project aims to restore safety to Tennessee’s rivers, streams, and reservoirs affected by Hurricane Helene.

Prioritized Areas:

• Watauga Lake and tributaries
• Nolichucky River (Greene, Unicoi, and Washington counties)
• Johnson County waterways
• French Broad River and Pigeon River (Cocke County)

Water Concerns

Water Conservation Advisories remain in effect for districts in Carter and Unicoi counties. Residents experiencing water loss or low pressure should consult their local water system for guidance.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has created a recovery webpage with resources, maps, and guidance for residents. For the latest information on water conservation orders and boil water advisories, visit TDEC’s webpage.

Helpful Resources

For more disaster assistance, residents can access these resources:

• Carter County: cartercountytn.gov
• FEMA: fema.gov/helene/tennessee
• Debris Removal: debris@cartercountytn.gov
• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency: tn.gov/tema
• U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance: sba.gov/disaster

For a full list of resources, visit the Carter County Planning Office or call 423-542-1834.

This update reflects Carter County’s ongoing commitment to recovery efforts and ensuring residents have access to the support and services they need.