Press release from the American Red Cross, Western North Carolina region:
Red Cross Reopens Shelter in Marion After Evacuation of Campgrounds
Polk County Middle School Shelter Closes
(ASHEVILLE, N.C., May 29, 2018) – The American Red Cross, in collaboration with McDowell County emergency management, reopens a shelter at the YMCA Corpening in Marion after the evacuation of Riverbreeze Campgrounds. Meanwhile, the shelter at Polk County Middle School has closed. The shelter at the First Baptist Church in Swannanoa remains open. Anyone impacted by the recent storms may take refuge at either of the 2 open shelters.
“The pervasive rain these past couple weeks has made many areas unstable,” said Alli Trask, executive director, Red Cross Asheville-Mountain Area Red Cross. “Even once the rain stops, there is still a danger due to saturated grounds possibly resulting in downed trees and power lines. High winds are also a great concern. We urge our neighbors to remain cautious and be prepared.”
OPEN SHELTERS:
YMCA Corpening
348 Grace Corpening Dr.
Marion, NC
First Baptist Church
503 Park St.
Swannanoa, NC
People may check shelter availability and whether a shelter is open on the Red Cross Emergency App. It may be downloaded in your mobile phone app store or you may text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999.
The Red Cross encourages anyone coming to a shelter to bring the following items for each member of their family:
• Prescriptions and emergency medications
• Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
• Identification to show residence is in affected area and important personal documents
• Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
• Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
• Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
• Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
• Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself
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