Contributed
As Tropical Storm Debby continues to impact Bladen County, numerous roads remain flooded, and a voluntary evacuation has been issued for the town of Bladenboro due to rising waters.
Road Closures and Flooding
The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office has reported that several roads throughout the county are still underwater. Notable areas affected include:
• Twisted Hickory Rd between Old Abbottsburg Rd and Grimsley Farm Rd in the Bladenboro area.
• White Plains Church Rd between Shepard Rs and Robbins Rd in the Elizabethtown area.
• Richardson Rd at Bryant Swamp off Forrest Dr near Bladenboro.
Additional flooded roads include:
• NC 211 Hwy E / Baldwin Elkins Road
• S Ashe St, Bladenboro
• MLK Jr Dr (between 4th / Cain), Bladenboro
• White Lake Dr near Camp Clearwater
• NC 53 E / Lake Shore Dr, White Lake
• NC 53 E / US 701 Hwy N, White Lake
• NC 242 S / Airport Rd, Bladenboro
• Butler Mill Rd / Wright St, Bladenboro
• Mitchell Ford Road / US 701, both sides
• US 701 / Southeastern Medical Clinic – Clarkton
• Mercer Mill Rd / Cypress St, Elizabethtown
• West Seaboard St / Wateree Park, Bladenboro
• Peanut Plant Rd / Blue Heron Rd, Elizabethtown
• Richardson St / MLK Drive, Elizabethtown
• US 701 S / Britt Road, Clarkton
• Peanut Rd / Richardson St, Elizabethtown
• W Broad / Glenwood, Elizabethtown
• Woodlief Dr / NC 53 E, White Lake
• Coley Rd @ Bridge (Rosindale / Airport)
• Butler Mill / Edwards Ave, Bladenboro
• Harrelson Rd / Mercer Mill, Brown Marsh Rd, Clarkton
• NC 131 between Grimes Singletary Rd and Marsh Rd
Residents are advised to stay off the roads and remain at home for their safety. The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes the importance of avoiding flooded areas and not driving through water-covered roads.
Voluntary Evacuation
Bladen County Emergency Services has issued a voluntary evacuation for residents in and around the town of Bladenboro due to rising floodwaters. Residents who decide to evacuate are advised to report to West Bladen High School. For assistance during evacuation, contact the Bladen County Emergency Operations Center at 910-862-7831 or 910-862-7810.
Infrastructure Concerns
The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office has also highlighted critical infrastructure issues. Specifically, Mercer Mill Rd near Harrelson Rd is experiencing rapid water crossing and shoulder collapse, posing significant risks to travelers. Residents are strongly urged to avoid this area.
Bladen County officials continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates. Citizens are encouraged to follow the Bladen County Emergency Services and Sheriff’s Office on social media for the latest information and advisories.