Tropical Depression Chantal Hits Central North Carolina

Chapel Hill, NC – Tropical Depression Chantal unleashed torrential rains across central North Carolina late Sunday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm caused severe flooding, forced evacuations, and left businesses and homes in disarray.

In Chapel Hill, the Eastgate Crossing shopping center bore the brunt of the storm. Floodwaters ripped the front door off a Talbot’s store, scattered furniture across the parking lot, and left the Great Outdoor Provision Co. in shambles. Sky 5 aerial footage revealed cars strewn across the mud-covered lot, many pushed into each other by the force of the water.

The storm displaced 63 residents in Chapel Hill, including 20 from Camelot Village, a community with a history of flooding. Other affected areas included Airport Gardens, Bolinwood Condominiums, and Booker Creek Townhouse Apartments. Emergency crews worked tirelessly to assist those trapped by rising waters.

Major highways were also impacted, with sections of I-40 and I-85 in Orange County temporarily closed due to flooding. The Haw River reached its second-highest level on record, with rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches reported in some areas within a 12-hour span.

Moore County declared a state of emergency as the storm washed out two dams and threatened others. In Southern Pines, the Longleaf Dam broke, flooding homes and apartment complexes. Emergency responders used boats and swimmers to rescue stranded residents. Additionally, a retaining wall failure near a shopping center on Brucewood Road caused further damage.

The storm’s impact extended to Pinehurst, where water mains were washed out, leading to low water pressure. Residents were advised to boil water until normal service resumed.

As cleanup efforts begin, officials urge residents to remain cautious and report any storm damage.

SOURCE | WRAL

Tropical Depression Chantal Leaves Devastation Across Central North Carolina  was originally published on foxync.com