People living in central North Carolina whose homes and belongings were damaged by heavy rains from Tropical Storm Chantal last month can now apply for state financial help. The aid is available to residents in eight counties around the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area, following a state disaster declaration signed by Governor Josh Stein.
The storm dumped between 9 and 12 inches of rain over the July 4 weekend, causing rivers to rise to record levels. This led to flooding, damaged homes and businesses, disrupted water systems, and tragically, at least six deaths linked to the storm. Many roads were flooded, some with sinkholes or structural damage, making them impassable.
Local authorities carried out numerous flood rescues, especially in Durham and Orange counties. Water service was affected in towns like Mebane, and Hillsborough’s water treatment plant was shut down for several days. Many people who had to leave their homes stayed in hotels during this time.
Governor Stein has also asked President Donald Trump and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to declare a federal major disaster. This would speed up federal aid to help repair roads, utilities, and clear debris. So far, damage estimates for public projects have reached over $42 million.
State assistance is now available for individuals to cover temporary housing, replace personal items, and pay medical bills. Residents can seek help at disaster recovery centers in Orange, Durham, and Alamance counties. Homeowners and business owners can also apply for loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help with repairs.
This effort comes after an earlier state-of-emergency declaration aimed at starting the process for federal help. The impact of Tropical Storm Chantal was severe, but with these steps, the affected communities in central North Carolina now have access to more resources as they begin to recover.