Tropical Depression Chantal has left a trail of destruction across central North Carolina, with communities in Alamance, Durham, Chatham, Orange, Moore, and Person counties grappling with severe flooding. The storm, which struck on July 6-7, 2025, has resulted in closed roads, damaged homes, power outages, and unfortunately, loss of life. The focus now shifts to cleanup, recovery, and providing support to those affected. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the storm’s impact, ongoing recovery efforts, and available resources for residents in need.
Governor Josh Stein is scheduled to tour the hardest-hit areas, including Lake Michael Park in Mebane, to assess the damage and coordinate state-level assistance. The widespread flooding has prompted emergency declarations, and local organizations are working tirelessly to provide shelter, food, and water to displaced residents. The coming days will be critical as communities begin the long process of rebuilding and returning to normalcy.
</n
Power Outages and Road Closures
As of Tuesday, more than 5,000 Duke Energy customers remain without power across the state, a significant improvement from the 30,000 outages reported during the storm’s peak. Chatham County is the most affected, with over 3,000 customers still in the dark. Restoration efforts are underway, but progress is hampered by ongoing road closures and challenging conditions.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) reports that dozens of roads remain closed due to flooding. These closures are impacting travel and hindering access to essential services. Motorists are advised to check NCDOT’s website for the latest updates and avoid driving through flooded areas.
Key Impacts of Tropical Depression Chantal
- Widespread Flooding: Over 100 streets and highways were blocked by flooding, including I-40/I-85 in Alamance County.
- Water Rescues: Close to 90 people were rescued from floodwaters, with over 60 water rescues reported.
- Emergency Shelters: Shelters were opened in Alamance, Moore, and Orange counties to house displaced residents.
- Tornadoes: The National Weather Service confirmed four tornadoes touched down in central North Carolina on Sunday.
- Fatalities: An 83-year-old woman died in Chatham County when her car was submerged near Jordan Lake, and another woman died in Person County after her car was submerged in flood waters.
Emergency Resources
The American Red Cross has established an emergency shelter at Emmanuel AME Church in Durham, located at 2018 Riddle Road. Residents can find the nearest shelter by visiting redcross.org/shelter, downloading the Red Cross Emergency App, or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).
Orange County Government is distributing free bottled water at Hillsborough Commons, 113 Mayo St. in Hillsborough, from 8 a.m. to noon and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. There is a limit of one case of water per vehicle, provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Devastation Across Central NC
The impacts of Tropical Depression Chantal have been felt across numerous communities, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.
- Carrboro: The Carrboro Public Works Facility was severely damaged by 3.5 feet of water, prompting the relocation of vehicles and equipment. The town is working to maintain essential services, including garbage collection.
- Chatham County: Roads collapsed in Pittsboro, and two kayakers went missing on Jordan Lake. Emergency crews are conducting search and rescue operations.
- Chapel Hill: The Eastgate Crossing shopping center was heavily damaged, with several stores and restaurants experiencing significant structural damage. Dozens of residents were displaced from their homes due to flooding in various apartment complexes. Hillsborough issued a boil water notice due to flooding at the water treatment plant.
- Durham: Eighty people were rescued from floodwaters, particularly in areas near the Eno River. Homes were flooded to chest level, and numerous cars were submerged. The Eno River reached historic flood levels, surpassing those of Hurricane Fran in 1996.
- Moore County: The Woodlake area experienced numerous water rescues and extensive property damage.
Loss of Life
The storm has tragically resulted in the loss of two lives. Sandra Hirschman, 83, of Pittsboro, died when her car was swept away by floodwaters in Chatham County. Monica Butner, 58, of Person County, died after her car was submerged while trying to get to work in Orange County.
Tornadoes Confirmed
The National Weather Service has confirmed that four tornadoes touched down in central North Carolina on Sunday:
- An EF1 tornado with 95 mph wind speeds at Raleigh Executive Jetport in Sanford
- An EF1 tornado with 100 mph wind speeds 4014 to 4085 Moncure Pittsboro Road in Moncure
- An EF1 tornado with 100 mph wind speeds near Lake Michael in Orange County
- An EF1 tornado with 105 mph wind speeds along Mount Hermon Rock Creek Road in Snow Camp
Looking Ahead
The aftermath of Tropical Depression Chantal presents significant challenges for communities across central North Carolina. As the focus shifts to cleanup and recovery, the collaborative efforts of government agencies, local organizations, and individual volunteers will be essential. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, exercise caution, and seek assistance from available resources.
The coming days and weeks will be critical as communities work to rebuild and recover from this devastating storm. FYM News will continue to provide updates on the recovery efforts and offer support to those affected. The resilience and spirit of the people in these communities will undoubtedly play a vital role in overcoming the challenges ahead.
Leave a Reply