McDowell County NC in North Carolina faces flash flooding / winter storm risk across its 441 square mile area. Marion serves this Blue Ridge county with Catawba River headwaters flooding. McDowell serves as the county seat and regional emergency coordination hub.
// Preparedness Recommendations
- Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
- Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
- Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
- Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.
// Recommended Supplies
Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.
- Emergency Food Supplies
- Water Filtration & Storage
- Backup Generator
- Solar Backup Power
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// Risk Intelligence
| Threat Score | 5 / 10 Low Risk |
| Primary Hazard | Flash Flooding / Winter Storm |
| Secondary Hazard | Tornado |
| FEMA Flood Zone | Low |
| Federally Declared Disasters | 6 |
| Last Major Event | Helene 2024 |
| Event Frequency | Annual |
// Emergency Operations
| Emergency Mgmt Phone | (828) 652-7121 |
| Emergency Shelters | 2 designated facilities |
| Evacuation Routes | State and US highways |
// County Profile
| County | McDowell County NC |
| State | North Carolina (NC) |
| Population | 45 |
| Area | 441 sq miles |
| FEMA Region | Low |
// Other North Carolina Counties
New Hanover County NC
Hurricane / Storm Surge
9/10
Critical
Brunswick County NC
Hurricane / Storm Surge
8/10
High
Buncombe County NC
Flash Flooding / Hurricane
8/10
High
Onslow County NC
Hurricane / Flooding
8/10
High
Pitt County NC
Hurricane / Flash Flooding
7/10
High
Nash County NC
Hurricane / Flash Flooding
7/10
Moderate