Official statements from Ballad Health, local news reports

54 Stranded on Roof of Tennessee Hospital Due to Hurricane Helene Flooding

Sep 27, 2024, 08:03 PM

More than 54 people, including patients and staff, are stranded on the roof of Unicoi County Hospital in Erwin, Tennessee, due to catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The floodwaters have made all roads to the hospital impassable, and multiple police cruisers and ambulances have been lost. Emergency crews initially attempted to evacuate people by ambulance and boats, but the rapidly rising water thwarted these efforts. A SWAT team that was training nearby assisted in the initial rescue efforts. Rescue operations are underway, with the McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base deploying Blackhawk helicopters and Virginia State Police leading the helicopter rescues. Some individuals have already been flown to dry ground, but the rescue mission is ongoing. Ballad Health confirmed the situation and the ongoing efforts.