5 things to know about storm recovery

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The rain is gone and the sun is out, but now many are dealing with debris from more than four days of historic flooding.

Here are five things you need to know about the recovery process across the Cape Fear Region:

1. Carolina Beach will be picking up bulk debris for free. Bulk debris such as household items (furniture, mattresses, etc.) and Vegetative debris from the flood may be placed curbside between now and Sunday. Staff will begin a one-time, free pick-up Monday.
2. Flooding or flood insurance questions? To find out if your property is eligible for this insurance, call your county government. You can also call the National Flood Insurance program to get more information. Click here for that information and more from the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
3. Among the many effects of the recent heavy rain and flooding is the risk of contamination to water wells, so Brunswick County is trying to help. The county says residents whose private drinking water wells flooded during the recent rain storms weeks can get their drinking water tested for free for a limited time. The Environmental Health Division at Brunswick County Health Services will perform free testing until October 23. After that date, the sampling will cost $50. Call (910) 253-2150 to arrange your water sample testing or if you have any other questions concerning your private drinking water well.
4. State leaders are working with farmers that lost anything in the storm. If your farm was impacted, you can call the Agriculture Weather Emergency Hotline at (866) 645-9403.
5. The Town of Carolina Shores is taking the following steps to help residents respond immediately to this major disaster:
   1. Daily Briefings at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. updating residents and fielding questions from residents at Town Hall.
   2. Disaster Recovery Clearing House from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. for those impacted by this disaster to receive needed information on receiving assistance, damage assessment, and other important information.
   3. Disaster Web Portal – available on the town’s website to be kept updated with pertinent disaster recovery information.