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Carter County officials have released an update on disaster assistance resources for the week of Jan. 27, 2025, as recovery efforts continue following the impacts of Hurricane Helene.

Local State of Emergency Extended

On Jan. 23, Mayor Patty Woodby issued Executive Order No. 18, extending the local state of emergency until Jan. 30 at 11:59 p.m. The emergency declaration, initially enacted on Sept. 27, 2024, remains in place due to ongoing recovery efforts and continued risks to public safety.

The order states:
“… in consideration of the continuing devastating effects of this severe weather event, the ongoing relief and recovery efforts in response thereto, and especially at this time due to the ongoing threats posed to the health, safety and welfare of the residents of Carter County in the hardest hit communities considering the extreme vulnerability of the basic infrastructure of these communities to ongoing weather events, it is in the public interest that the Local State of Emergency be extended for an additional period of seven days …”

Debris Removal in Waterways

Carter County, in coordination with state and federal agencies, continues efforts to clear storm-related debris from rivers, creeks and other affected bodies of water. The project aims to prevent future flooding, reduce environmental hazards and restore aquatic ecosystems disrupted by the storm.

The waterways targeted for debris removal include:

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

Right of Entry Agreement for Debris Removal

To remove disaster-related debris efficiently, access to certain private properties is necessary. Beginning this week, debris removal contractor Phillips & Jordan will conduct door-to-door visits in designated areas, requesting property owners to sign a Right of Entry Agreement.

Without this signed agreement, cleanup crews will face delays in removing debris. Property owners should verify staff identification before signing. Additional information and updates are available on the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency website.

Water Conservation Advisories

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

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has created a recovery webpage consolidating maps, guidance and applications related to Hurricane Helene’s environmental impact.

Elk Mills/Poga Medical Clinic Services

The Elk Mills/Poga medical clinic continues to offer walk-in services every Thursday through February. ETSU Family Medicine provides care from noon to approximately 4:30 p.m.

Location: 107 Poga Road, Butler

Prescription Assistance Available

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) to help uninsured Tennessee residents replace lost or damaged prescriptions and select medical equipment.

The deadline to apply for EPAP has been extended to April 1, 2025. More details are available at aspr.hhs.gov/epap.