More Than 100 Rescued After Cape Fear River Floods

North Carolina’s National Guard and the United States Coast Guard conducted a rescue operation last night in Bladen County for more than 100 people and 33 animals that were stranded after the Cape Fear River flooded a small town. 

The rescue operation was in the area of Kelly, North Carolina, which sits between Wilmington and Fayetteville. The National Guard and the Coast Guard used boats and aircraft in the operation, hoisting many of the residents in the area to safety.

“We are eternally grateful to our first responders who continue to show unflinching courage in the face of danger,” Gov. Roy Cooper said of the rescues.

Cooper said there have been at least 5,000 rescues in the state because of Hurricane Florence and that more than doubles the number of rescues that occurred during Hurricane Matthew. 

Brigadier General Todd Hunt said last night’s operation took excellent coordination. 

“This a coordinated event with several different agencies and states to rescue these 100 people and 33 animals and get them to shelter,” Hunt said.

Hunt added that the crews involved in last night’s rescues, which included guardsmen from outside of the state, are preparing for potentially more rescue operations tonight.

Cooper also noted that there were still 56,000 people without power, more than 600 road closures and more than 3,700 people in shelters. Cooper also said Florence has claimed the lives of 31 North Carolinians.