PILOT MOUNTAIN, N.C. — Volunteer rescue crews worked through dangerous flooding Saturday night, Aug. 1, into the early morning hours of Sunday, performing multiple water rescues and responding to numerous emergencies as heavy rainfall impacted communities across the area.
According to Pilot Mountain Rescue and EMS, rescuers battled severe weather throughout the night, removing multiple people from floodwaters, responding to motor vehicle crashes and assisting with numerous other emergency calls across the county.
Officials urged residents to continue using caution while traveling, warning that many roads remain flooded or impassable.
“Floodwaters are no joke,” the agency said, reminding motorists to never drive through flooded roadways. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Pilot Mountain Rescue Chief Brian Cockerham praised the dedication of the volunteer responders who answered the call during the dangerous conditions.
“I am beyond proud and thankful for our Pilot Mountain Rescue volunteers who selflessly answered the call, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect and serve the place we call home,” Cockerham said. “The Good Lord watched over us throughout the night and allowed every victim and every rescuer to return home safely. For that, we are truly grateful. Thank you as well to all of our partnering agencies who answered the call to help their fellow man.”
Among those rescued was Emily Crissman, a single mother of two daughters, whose vehicle was swept away during what supporters described as a sudden flash flood while she was driving home from work late Saturday night.
Supporters said Emily was leaving her second job and heading to house-sit for a coworker when, in the darkness, she unknowingly drove into an area where floodwaters had washed out the roadway. They emphasized the incident was not a case of intentionally driving through flooded water, but rather that the missing section of road was difficult to see.
Emily escaped with minor injuries, but lost her vehicle, cellphone and eyeglasses in the flood. She now faces the costs of purchasing a new vehicle, paying towing and hospital bills, and replacing personal belongings.
Family and friends have launched an effort to help Emily recover financially, noting that she works multiple jobs to provide for her daughters.
Community members also expressed gratitude to the volunteer first responders who rescued Emily and others during the flooding, recognizing the extensive training and commitment required to serve in emergency response roles.
Authorities continue to encourage motorists to avoid flooded roadways and exercise caution as cleanup efforts continue following the weekend storms.
You can donate to a GoFundMe Page that has been set up, click here.
