GASTONIA, N.C. – Gaston County officials announced that its State of Emergency, that went into effect following Wednesday’s severe weather, will end today at 5 p.m.
Gaston County Chairman issued the State of Emergency after significant power outages and numerous trees were knocked down.
Emergency crews have worked diligently to restore power to the community. As of 1:30 p.m., only 7.5% of the county – roughly 8,500 customers – are still without power.
“We’ve been very appreciative of the support from multiple state agencies over these past 48 hours, as well as the tireless work of first responders, emergency management personnel, linemen and community volunteers in helping our county get back on its feet,” Gaston County Board of Commissioners Chairman Chad Brown said. “The resilience of our community is inspiring, but does not surprise me, because I know Gaston County residents are always up to the challenge when disaster strikes.”
The National Weather Service out of Greenville-Spartanburg also confirmed that two separate EF-1 tornadoes touched down on Thursday. Read more HERE.
One person was also killed from a downed tree that fell on a car. Another was injured and transported to the hospital.
The Red Cross opened a shelter in Gaston County on Thursday to help those displaced by the storms. It is located at the Citizens Resource Center in Dallas, North Carolina.
“The Red Cross is in close contact with those affected by the recent storms to make sure we can support their immediate needs and provide comfort and care at this difficult time,” said Scott Loudermelt, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Blue Ridge Piedmont Chapter.
The emergency shelter will remain open until at least Monday, May 13th.
