NARROWS, Va. (WDBJ) – The remnants of Hurricane Helene brought a deluge of rain to many communities across southwest Virginia, with Giles County, particularly the town of Narrows, facing the brunt of the storm.
Loretta Mills, a longtime Narrows resident, told WDBJ7 that she and others in the community felt shocked after the storm’s destruction.
“I have never in my 50 years, have ever seen anything like this,” said Mills.
Helene tore through Narrows Friday, leaving a scene of devastation. Homes and businesses were no match for the storm’s force, and Riverview Campgrounds sustained some of the worst damage.
“So many of my friends and neighbors have lost everything… there’s mud in their campers pretty deep, so now we are helping each other do everything we can to salvage what’s left,” said Mills.
The campground’s owner told WDBJ7 residents will be without running water or power for at least three months. Overturned campers, homes filled with mud, and piles of debris have become a common sight in the area as residents struggle to come to terms with the storm’s aftermath.
Volunteers have been a lifeline for the community. Since Saturday, groups like those from Hope Church have been assessing the damage and clearing debris.
“We started at the Iron Skillet and worked with the community to clean up there,” said Jay Smith, a volunteer with Hope Church. “From there, we moved on to Riverview Campgrounds, where the devastation was overwhelming. We were helping folks throw things away or just being there if they needed someone to talk to or pray with.”
The Narrows Fire Department has also stepped in, organizing donations and distributing essential supplies. Supplies can be picked up at the Activity Building at 137 Center St.
“We have water, food, cleaning supplies, clothing, diapers, toys—anything to help the families who were affected,” said Michael Lambert, Captain with the Narrows Fire Department.
In addition to cleanup efforts, other volunteers are working to feed those displaced by the storm.
“We just wanted all hands on deck, so we called for help. We’re giving free food to anyone who needs it. This is a small town, and I love it here. We want to do everything we can to help people get back on their feet,” said Beth Smith, volunteer with Hope Church.
While the community of Narrows is showing incredible strength in the face of disaster, the road to recovery will be long. Many residents in Giles County remain without power or water, and the full extent of the storm’s impact is only beginning to be seen.
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