HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — If you haven’t seen flooded roads, streets, fields or basements yet today, be prepared.

Statements from Hendersonville officials and the National Weather Service said severe flooding is expected in the area. They have warned property owners in the 100-year floodplain and floodway to be prepared.

“A storm with the potential to cause catastrophic flooding is forecasted to impact our region. This storm could bring extreme rainfall and severe flooding far beyond typical floodplain risks. If you are a commercial business owner, we strongly encourage you to close during this extreme weather event,” the Hendersonville news release said. “If your property is in the 100-year floodplain or Floodway, you are at an increased risk of catastrophic flooding.”

CLICK HERE TO SEE A MAP OF THE FLOODPLAIN

Take these critical steps immediately:

  • Prepare to evacuate: Make arrangements to leave as soon as possible, follow official evacuation orders promptly if issued, secure your property
  • Move valuables and important documents to higher ground.
  • Shut off utilities such as gas, electricity and water to reduce hazards.
  • Stay Informed: Monitor local news, weather alerts and official notifications from Henderson County Emergency Management for real-time updates. Sign up for emergency alerts and visit www.ready.gov/floods for preparedness guides.
  • Do not enter floodwaters: Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, as they can be extremely dangerous.
  • Follow local authorities’ instructions: Adhere to all road closures, shelter recommendations, and other emergency services guidance.

For emergencies, dial 911.

HURRICANE HELENE: STORM UPDATES, SHELTER INFO & MORE

The City of Hendersonville is currently on a Level 3 Alert for Flooded Roadways. General updates on flooding and street closures are available here.

The City of Hendersonville Government Offices will be closed the rest of the day Thursday and all day Friday. The office closure will not impact  emergency services.

No garbage, recycling or brush collection will occur Friday. If you are a Friday customer, or if your Thursday collection was unable to be completed due to the collection crew’s inability to access your property, your collection will be completed on your regular day next week. Any extra bagged garbage for those customers can be placed with their can for collection next week. Customers are asked to secure carts to ensure they are not blown away during the storm.

Hendersonville Water & Sewer has provided the following tips for customers:

  • Fill several gallons of potable water containers for drinking per person in the household.
  • Fill pots on the stove with water for cooking.
  • Fill buckets with water for washing dishes.
  • Fill bathtubs with water and use buckets to flush toilets.
  • The easiest way to flush your toilet is to fill the tank behind the bowl with water and then flush as normal or pour water directly into the bowl until the pressure forces it to flush.
  • During a water outage, try not to operate water faucets. This will prevent air from entering your plumbing.
  • During a water outage, our personnel will work to restore potable water service as quickly as possible but having a preparedness plan will ensure your family will be ready for an unexpected event.