Project Summary

OVERVIEW
The elevation gradients, precipitation patterns, and geological features of Western North Carolina create conditions that make the area highly susceptible to sudden impacts of extreme rainfall. As a result, Haywood County is no stranger to flooding events. The relatively recent memory of 2004’s storm trio still haunts longtime residents. Over three weeks in September, the cumulative effects of the remnants of Hurricanes Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne caused widespread flood damage in Western North Carolina. History repeated itself in 2021.

Because of cumulative rainfall over several days, 2021’s Tropical Storm Fred resulted in catastrophic flash flooding and major landslides throughout Haywood County. In the days before the storm, the region received up to 10 inches of rain, saturating the ground and creating conditions ripe for stormwater runoff. On August 17th, Tropical Storm Fred moved northward from Georgia, resulting in an additional 5- to 10-inches of rainfall across the region. These heavy rainfall events caused the Pigeon River to rise more than 2.5 feet in 30 minutes. In Canton, the Pigeon River reached its fourth highest level on record since 1928. Infrastructure impacts included bridges and roads overtopping, Canton’s drinking water treatment plant flooding, and Evergreen Packaging’s wastewater treatment plant being compromised. Over 400 structures were destroyed or damaged, including Canton’s Town Hall. Six deaths were attributed to flooding due to Tropical Storm Fred across the region. Public infrastructure damage estimates totaled more than $18.7 million.

This project is currently underway; updates will be provided upon completion.