The mandatory evacuation order issued for the Kelly community has been extended to include areas of Highway 53 (west of Kelly), over Lyon Road, Cassius Smith Road, and Elwell Ferry Road. The Cape Fear River continues to rise and is expected to crest on Saturday, to levels higher than that of Hurricane Matthew.
Residents are encouraged to move further inland if at all possible, or move to your closest Bladen County shelter, which will be:
West Bladen High School, 1600 NC-410, Bladenboro, NC 28320 (also our Special Needs and Animals shelter)
The water is coming in around the dike, which has made Highway 53 impassible for passenger vehicles at this time. The dike is also leaking in several places.
Anyone requiring assistance to evacuate the area should meet at the Kelly Post Office
We have enough resources to ensure safe evacuation of the Kelly area. Please do not attempt rescues unless you are requested by the Bladen County Emergency Services. For all emergencies please call 911.
Please turn around when roadways are flooded; even 1 inch of water could sweep vehicles off of the road.
Stay tuned to your local and social media channels for updates.
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