(Updated 2:32PM 10/22) Additional information can be found on the Madison County website.
Water boil advisory has been removed
System Pressure Advisory Rescinded: Based on the laboratory analysis of water samples collected from Town of Hot Springs on 10/08/2024, water users are hereby notified that it is no longer necessary to boil water used for human consumption.
County Inspections
Building inspectors are visiting residences to assess the condition of structures. If your address is missing or not prominenty displayed, please write it somewhere clearly visibile from your driveway. Even if it is a piece of paper in the window!
Go to the “County Inspections” section of this page for more information.
Donations Update
Next week, beginning Tuesday, October 15, donations pickups will resume at the Hot Springs First Baptist Church (35 Meadow Ln)
Hours for pickup at the First Baptist Church will be:
Tuesday: 2:00PM-6:00PM
Thursday: 2:00PM-6:00PM
Saturday: 10:00AM-2:00PM
Hotlines
If you are having a medical emergency, dial 911.
The Madison County Mental Health Support Line is at (828) 206-3290. 10:00AM-7:00PM, 7 days per week.
If you are having a mental health emergency, call Mobile Crisis at 1-888-573-1006.
To request a wellness check or report a missing person, call Madison County Emergency Operations Command at (828) 649-1955 or email them at e911@madisoncountync.gov.
Residents trying to connect with family members may dial 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones.
Assistance
Request Volunteers
Please fill out the Google Form linked here. It will ask for your information, where you are located, and a brief summary of your needs. As volunteers come in from outside areas, we may use this information to have them help you if and when possible.
FEMA Disaster Assistance
North Carolina has officially received a Major Disaster Declaration, making individuals in Madison County eligible for Individual Assistance through the FEMA. Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process.
It is acceptable to start the cleanup process, but please make sure you do the following to assist your FEMA eligibility:
- Take numerous photos of everything damaged before cleanup
- If you dispose of any items, you MUST maintain a list of everything that is disposed with an estimated value and where it was disposed of.
- Create an inventory of what was lost with estimated date of purchase and amounted paid
Addressing FEMA Rumors
Do not believe what you read on social media without verifying first. Please visit FEMA’s Hurricane Rumor Response page to learn what is and isn’t facts regarding their help. Consider applying for FEMA Assistance. You can call 1-800-621-3362 (7:00AM-10:00PM) or visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov.
U.S. Small Business Administration
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) (https://www.sba.gov/) are available to businesses and residents in North Carolina following the announcement of a Presidential disaster declaration for Tropical Storm Helene that began on Sept. 25.
You can learn more about their program by reading their News Press Release (english / español).
If you have a question about the SBA, they have a fact sheet (english / español) you can reference.
Unemployment
You may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Insurance. Individuals can go online to the NC Division of Employment Security and file a claim at des.nc.gov or call the DUA Hotline 919-629-3875. Madison NC Works at AB Tech Madison is available to answer questions and assist.
Food/Supplies
DONATIONS UPDATE
Donations pickups will be open for one last day in the Hot Springs Elementary School Gym tomorrow, Friday, October 11 from 10:00AM-5:00PM.
Residents should stock their pantries.
Next week, beginning Tuesday, October 15, donations pickups will resume at the Hot Springs First Baptist Church (35 Meadow Ln).
Hours for pickup at the First Baptist Church will be:
Tuesday: 2:00PM-6:00PM
Thursday: 2:00PM-6:00PM
Saturday: 10:00AM-2:00PM
Food and Nutrition Service Benefits
If food that was purchased with DSS Food & Nutrition Service benefits has been damaged or lost as a result of Hurricane Helene, you may be eligible for food replacement benefits! Request replacement benefits from our local DSS office (8:00AM-5:00PM M-F). Forms are available at the front desk of the main office that can be completed on site and left for a caseworker. Forms can also be emailed to Patsy Frisby at pfrisby@madisoncountync.gov or mailed to 5707 U.S. Hwy 25-70, Suite 1, Marshall, NC 28753.
USDA has approved a waiver for Madison County for the 10-day reporting requirement for food purchased with FNS benefits as detailed on the form. The waiver is in effect through October 26, 2024 so those applying for replacement benefits would need to do so by that date.
County Inspections
Building inspectors are visiting residences to assess the condition of structures. If your address is missing or not promenint, please write it somewhere clearly visibile from your driveway. Even if it is a piece of paper in the window!
Their goal is to ensure safety and help guide the rebuilding process. We deeply appreciate your patience and cooperation during this challenging time. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the Madison County Development Services Department (828-319-5003). Remember, you are not alone, and the county is there to support you as we work together to rebuild our community.
What do the inspection placards mean?
You will see three different inspection placards throughout the community. Do not remove these placards as they are an important step in receiving aid and informing homeowners and workers of the safety of a structure. If you receive a yellow or red placard, an inspection permit will be required to return to the structure. These permits will be free and the process will begin rolling in the next week or so.
Green
A green placard means that the structure has been inspected and no apparent structiral hazard has been found. This structure is safe to enter and use as normal.
Yellow
A yellow placard means that the structure has been damaged and has restricted use. Please use caution and be careful if you are in one of these structures!
Red
A red placard means that a structure has been found to be seriously dangerous or unsafe to occupy. This is not a demolition order. This simply means that it is unsafe and unwise to enter the structure until major repairs are completed.
Most of all, use common sense. If a building is damaged, be alert and be careful.
Legal Aid
Legal Aid of North Carolina is able to help residents with starting the process with FEMA benefits, applying for Disaster Unemployment Assistance, and requesting Crisis Cleanup Assistance. For more information, visit https://legalaidnc.org/tropical-storm-helene-disaster-assistance.
Financial Tips
- Consider turning OFF auto-pay for your bills
- Consider canceling unneeded subscription services
Utilities
Water
Based on the laboratory analysis of water samples collected from Town of Hot Springs on 10/08/2024, water users are hereby notified that it is no longer necessary to boil water used for human consumption.
Flush the bad water out of your lines before using! If you have not used your water since the flood, run your water for 3 minutes. Also dispose of contaminated ice from your fridge.
Finding Drinkable Water
Water fill tanks are available out front of Hot Springs school. Bring your own container.
Well Water
If your well head came into contact with flood water, have the water tested before you use it for any purpose.
The Madison County Health Department is offering free testing for wells that were submerged in flood waters. Contact the Health Department Environmental Health for scheduling by calling their temporary phone number at 828-319-5100 or envhealth@madisoncountync.gov. You can also find a guide for well safety on their website.
NC Division of Environmental Quality/ Division of Water Resources has coordinated with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 4 to station a mobile lab to test drinking water at AB Tech Community College, 20 Canoe Lane, Woodfin, NC 28804. The lab will be available from 9:00AM-5:00PM seven days a week until Oct. 19.
Water Bills
Updated information regarding Town Hall services coming ASAP.
Toileting
Our sewer system has taken significant damage from the flood and will be a long-term project in order to repair/rebuild. Please do not flush unless you need to flush. Do not flush wipes, diapers, or anything that doesn’t belong down the drain.
If you can, please use the Port-a-Johns located through out town.
- 3 at Hot Springs Elementary School
- 2 at Sara Jo’s Gas Station
- 1 at Welcome Center
- 1 at Medical Clinic
Trash
Hot Springs collection center operating normal hours. Household trash only.
- Monday 7:30AM-6:00PM
- Wednesday 7:30AM-5:30PM
- Friday 7:30AM-6:00PM
- Saturday 8:00AM-5:00PM
Trash pickup is returning to Mondays like usual. YES use this service if you need it, BUT only use this service if you cannot bring it to the collection center yourself. It is led by volunteers at this time. Debris pickup is to come.
Electricity
PLEASE CONSERVE! Intermittent power is expected. We are now running on a temporary power solution from Duke energy until the main substation can be replaced.
Consider turning breakers off to parts of your home that don’t need electricity.
Phone/Internet
Cell service has returned to the area.
Skyrunner internet is beginning to make repairs to the area. It seems to be working fairly well in downtown, but it has not reached River Rd yet.
Frontier took severe damage to their system. They have stated no timeline as of now.
Health
Emergencies
If you are having a medical emergency, dial 911.
Medical
Hot Springs Health Clinic is open normal business hours. Monday-Friday 9:00AM-3:00PM. Walk-ins accepted, appointments preferred. (828) 622-3245
The Hot Springs Health Program can help to fill existing prescriptions. You do not need to be a patient to be seen by them.
Mashburn and Mars Hill medical locations are open standard business hours. Walk-ins accepted, appointments preferred.
WEEKEND hours are available at MARS HILL only. Call (828) 689-3507
- Saturday 9:00AM-5:00PM
- Sunday 1:00PM-5:00PM
Prescriptions
- Sona Pharmacy has advised that Madison County employees may call them directly regarding prescriptions and medications at 844-550-1984 or email them directly at help@sonapharmacybenefits.com.
- Madison Pharmacy & Gifts can help with over the counter and prescription medicines. They can help with emergency and non-emergency prescriptions no matter where they were originally filled.
- Prescription Pad in Weaverville is available to support through their drive-through.
The Health Department is open, including WIC services, during regular hours. Tetanus shots are available at the Health Department. Insulin is available for anyone who need it. The Dental Center is open. Phones are currently down. Please call 828-319-5222.
Mental Health
We know this has been a lot. You cannot take care of otheres if you do not take care of yourself first.
The Madison County Mental Health Support Line is at (828) 206-3290. 10:00AM-7:00PM, 7 days per week. You will be connected with a trained professional. This is not a crisis line.
If you are having a mental health emergency, call Mobile Crisis at 1-888-573-1006.
Just Be is now offering donation-based massages at Little Bird Cabin (49 S Serpentine Ave). Contact Brooke Swango at 317-650-3204 or breathmovementspirit@gmail.com for scheduling.
Medicaid
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is working with state, federal and local partners to help North Carolinians impacted by Hurricane Helene access needed health care. NC Medicaid has been granted additional temporary changes to help with continued care during recovery efforts.
Federal flexibilities are active statewide from Sept. 25, 2024, through the end of the Hurricane Helene Public Health Emergency declaration for North Carolina and are intended to support Hospitals, Psychiatric Hospitals, Critical Access Hospitals, including Cancer Centers and Long-Term Care Hospitals so that they can ensu
- People can receive emergency medical treatment.
- There are places to provide hospital care to people.
- There are people to provide health care.
- Telemedicine is available.
- Hospitalized patients have continuity of care.
- People can get the care they need in a long-term care or skilled nursing facility.
- Acute care patients can stay longer.
- Patients get the care they need in the best environment.
- People with intellectual disabilities being cared for in facilities continue to receive services.
- People have the medical equipment and medicine they need.
Detailed information on the flexibilities can be found in the Oct. 4, 2024, press release, Additional Temporary Flexibilities in Place for Medicaid Beneficiaries Due to Hurricane Helene Devastation.
Additional detail, including the list of waivers approved by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid for North Carolina can be found in the Provider Bulletin Reminder to Providers on Hurricane Helene Approved Waivers for North Carolina issued Oct. 4, 2024.
Pets and Agriculture
Pets/Animals
Pet food of all kinds are available at the Hot Springs Elementary School gym from 10:00AM-5:00PM.
Found Dogs and Cats – do not bring them to the animal shelter unless they need emergency care. Be prepared to house the pet for a short time. The shelter capacity is limited. Pet food can be provided.
Deceased Dogs/Cats on Private Property – Take a photo, if possible. Check for collar, tag, and identifying markings and email shelter@madisoncountync.gov. Property owners can dispose of remains at the county landfill unless animal has some form of identification. If there is id, bring the animal to the animal shelter between 10:00AM-2:00PM daily.
Deceased Dogs/Cats or Livestock on Roads – contact DOT
Livestock
The Madison County Fairgrounds is storing resources for livestock and poultry. (828) 319-0981
WNC Regional Livestock Center
- Livestock feed (hay and grain) and other supplies available for pick up
- Stalls available for displaced animals
- Assistance with evacuating animals available. Text (828) 216-4496
Farmers/Foresters
USDA Aid
You can visit the USDA website at farmers.gov to find information about federal assistance. Programs address crop/livestock loss, non-insured crops, and small family private forest owners with debris removal and fencing help.
NC Department of Agriculture
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has activated its hotline to connect farmers with resources that can assist with damage and other agricultural emergencies related to the storm. The toll-free number is 1-866-645-9403. A live operator will be available on the hotline between 8:00AM-5:00PM.
For losses – Charles Zink of FSA will be in his office (296 Old Marshall Hwy, Marshall), open 8:00AM-10:00AM, for farmers who have sustained loss of crop or livestock or who have had damage to their land. Phones are not working yet. You can email Charles at charles.zink@usda.gov. He will have a box at his office to drop off information if you miss him. FSA applications will open 10/15/24.
Services
School
Madison County Schools will resume on Wednesday, October 16 on a two-hour delay. There will also be a two-hour delay on Thursday and Friday to give bus drivers plenty of light for the commute. On Monday, October 21, the regular schedule will resume.
Woodson Branch Nature School
Enrollment is open for students, grades K-8, at Woodson Branch Nature School through their Project Lighthouse program. This program is FREE to families in need. Coupon code for Monday & Tuesday is lighthousechoice1, Thursday & Friday is lighthousechoice2.
You can learn more at their website: https://www.madisoncclc.org.
Mail Service
If you have a mailbox at your home, CHECK YOUR MAIL! USPS rural delivery is operational once more.
The post office is closed indefinitely. A temporary mail truck is available at the Hot Springs Medical Center.
2024 General Election
There have been some changes to the 2024 General Election. Don’t forget your photo ID.
Early Voting Locations
Hot Springs Senior Meal Site
356 NW Hwy 25-70
Hot Springs, NC, 28743
Madison A-B Tech Campus
4646 US 25-70 Hwy
Marshall NC, 28753
Beech Glen Community Center Gymnasium
2936 Beech Glen Road
Mars Hill NC, 28754
Schedule
| DAY | DATE | OPEN TIME | CLOSE TIME |
| Thursday | October 17 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Friday | October 18 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Saturday | October 19 | Closed | Closed |
| Sunday | October 20 | Closed | Closed |
| Monday | October 21 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Tuesday | October 22 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Wednesday | October 23 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Thursday | October 24 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Friday | October 25 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Saturday | October 26 | Closed | Closed |
| Sunday | October 27 | Closed | Closed |
| Monday | October 28 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Tuesday | October 29 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Wednesday | October 30 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Thursday | October 31 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Friday | November 01 | 8:00AM | 7:30PM |
| Saturday | November 02 | 8:00AM | 3:00PM |