lake lure dam failure

 Preliminary rain totals from Hurricane Helene have been significant across South Carolina and North Carolina. In parts of South Carolina, especially in the Piedmont and Sandhills regions, some areas have reported up to 20 inches of rain, contributing to flash floods and widespread flooding. Coastal areas, such as Charleston, are also experiencing flooding due to the storm surge. 

In North Carolina, the western mountains are seeing particularly heavy rainfall, with amounts reaching as high as 15 inches in some locations. This is well above the threshold for landslides, raising concerns about potential land instability in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

These rain totals are expected to increase as the storm continues its path northward. Recovery efforts are ongoing, but the flooding remains a significant challenge.

Hurricane Helene has triggered widespread evacuation orders and flash flood emergencies across multiple states, with Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas being hit hardest. Over 20 counties in Florida, including Franklin and Wakulla, have issued mandatory evacuation orders, particularly for coastal and low-lying areas. 

Flash flood emergencies and tornado warnings are in effect, especially in North and South Carolina, as Helene brings the risk of devastating floods, landslides, and high winds.

North Carolina's governor declared a state of emergency, preparing for possible landslides, power outages, and river flooding.

 Federal agencies, including FEMA, have urged residents to evacuate where necessary, warning that conditions could quickly become life-threatening.