Swannanoa Community United in Search for Missing Residents After Devastating Storm

Swannanoa, N.C. Faces Uncertainty in Wake of Natural Disaster

Swannanoa, a small town nestled in the North Carolina mountains, is grappling with the aftermath of the recent storm that has left many families in distress. One such family is the Ramsuers, whose daughter, Shalana Jordan, anxiously awaits news of her parents, Nola and Robert Ramsuer. Shalana lives two hours away in Winston-Salem and is understandably worried after losing contact.

“I last spoke with them on Friday the 27th at 7:30 in the morning,” Shalana recalled, her voice shaky with emotion. “My mom said, ‘Oh, the power went out again. It’s raining a lot, but we’re OK.'” Unfortunately, since that call, Shalana hasn’t heard a word from them. “I’ve tried calling and texting every day, multiple times a day since then. It’s just not like them to not respond,” she added, her concern deepening.

Community Gathering Point for Support

As she continues to worry about her parents, Shalana is making arrangements to head to Swannanoa this Friday or over the weekend. Meanwhile, the First Baptist Church of Swannanoa has become a hub for the community, offering support and assistance. A whiteboard outside the church now lists local residents who are still missing, and sadly, her parents’ names still remain on that board.

Local authorities are doing what they can, but the situation is challenging. Shalana’s parents lived in trailer No. 15 at the Avery Wood Trailer Park, which stands precariously close to the Swannanoa River. News reports have noted significant damage to the park, with numerous mobile homes moved off their foundations. However, Shalana mentioned that her parents’ trailer was securely strapped down, and still, it has been affected by the mud and debris.

A Glimmer of Hope Amid Frustration

Amid the overwhelming fear and uncertainty, Shalana holds onto hope that her parents might be safe in a shelter somewhere. “I’ve filled out forms with the Red Cross, with the County Register of Deeds, and I’ve got nothing,” she expressed, frustration etched on her face. Her thoughts drift to the possibilities if they are no longer with us, and she wished there was clearer communication from local officials to help worried family members find their loved ones.

First Responder’s Emotional Toll

Swannanoa’s Fire Chief, Anthony Penland, is at the forefront of the efforts, working nonstop at the fire department while coordinating search teams. Emotions run high as he confirmed the grim reality that “over five” bodies have already been recovered, with the unfortunate possibility that the number may rise.

“I was born and raised here, so this is difficult. My community’s gone,” Penland said, his voice wavering. “The church my wife and I married in is gone, where I raised my kids…where I played baseball is gone.” It’s clear that the emotional weight of the tragedy is heavy on everyone involved.

Federal Aid and Search Efforts

Amid the devastation, hope glimmers with the promise of assistance as a U.S. Search and Rescue agency will have up to 40 teams of dogs in the area to search for the missing. “Don’t forget us. Please,” Penland implored. He emphasized that the community is just as important as any other area, despite not having a formal government structure.

Taking One Day at a Time

As recovery efforts continue with the National Guard’s presence and heavy machinery in town, the local community is taking things one day at a time. Shalana remains hopeful and is waiting anxiously for word from a Buncombe County Sheriff’s deputy who contacted her just a day before.

“Apparently, they were well known in the community, which makes me really happy,” Shalana said, tears welling in her eyes. “My mom is so sweet and so helpful, she would bend over backwards to help anybody. My dad, a decorated Vietnam veteran, deserves to be found.” She continues to urge anyone with information to come forward, holding tightly to hope for her parents.