Tropical Storm Debby has caused numerous issues for the Lobelia community over the past few days. Unfortunately, the residents are no strangers to the rising waters that come with each storm. These rising waters along the river preempted Moore County Public Safety officials to issue a voluntary evacuation for residents on Thursday.
Within the past 24 hours, there have been multiple swift water rescues. Some were residents who needed help leaving, and some were vehicles that tried to drive through the already flooded area. All of these rescues have been in the area of Morrison Bridge Road and Riverview Drive.
These waters move extremely fast and are classified as swift water. The NFPA defines swift water as water moving at a rate that exceeds one knot or approximately 1.15 mph. This water could be extremely dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
Crains Creek Fire Department issued the following statement on its Facebook page.
“DO NOT go around barricades. They are there for your protection. We are currently on our 4th water rescue today so far. All because of people not obeying the barricades. The roads are now blocked mostly with other vehicles and you will not make it pass if you attempt. You are putting yourself and emergency personnel at risk. We will post when roads have been opened.”
The following roads in the Lobelia area remain closed at this time.
McPherson Road is closed behind Dollar General. Water is across the bridge.
Cabin Creek is closed.
Creekbend Drive is closed.
Riverview Drive is closed.
Morrison Bridge Road is closed at McGill Road.
~Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Tia Parsons-Abel.
