Due to the expected tropical storm conditions forecasted for Sunday night and through early next week, Polk County officials are recommending a voluntary evacuation for specific areas before Sunday at 5 p.m.
“This area has been hit hard by recent storms and should a catastrophic event occur, for residents who do not evacuate, it could take days to reach and rescue anyone affected,” officials said in a news release Friday.
According to the release, Polk County Sheriff and Emergency Management are asking residents to call them of their decision to either voluntarily evacuate or their decision to stay in their home.
Officials are asking people to call in order for aid officials to account for the local residents and to arrange for law enforcement to check on evacuees’ property.
Here are the steps for calling in about the voluntary evacuation:
- Call 828-333-9017
- Give the representative your name, physical address and contact number
- Then tell officials if you plan to voluntarily evacuate or if you’re planning to stay in your home
The following areas are listed as areas of heightened concern ahead of the tropical storm conditions:
- Highway 176 from North Wall Road to 3910 Highway 176
- Warrior Drive from Baker Drive to Meadowlark Drive
- Meadowlark Drive and intersecting roads
- Walcot Farm Lane
- Miller Mountain Road
- Rixhaven subdivision
- Green River Cove Road
- Holbert Cove Road
According to the release, an American Red Cross shelter will be opening up starting at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 27.
The following is the address of the shelter:
- Polk County Middle School, 321 Wolverine Trail, Mill Spring, NC, 28756
Anyone planning on evacuating and going to the shelter are asked to bring the following items for each member of their family:
- Prescription and emergency medications
- Extra clothing
- Pillow
- Blankets
- Hygiene supplies
- Important documents
- Any other comfort items
- If you have small children, bring diapers, formula and toys
Residents needing help evacuating the area should call Polk County at 828-894-0188.
Foodhills Humane Society will be setting up a holding area and will be taking in as many pets of residents participating in the voluntary evacuation as they have space for.
Love and Care Kennels (828-287-7040), Dogwood Kennels (828-216-6211) and Primerose Acres (864-461-3003) have limited space available.
Tryon International Equestrian Center will also be providing stabling for horses.
Those who evacuate due to the storms are cautioned about returning to their home before officials can conduct an evaluation of the area, according to the release.
