Lake Lure Refill Begins Following Hurricane Helene Damage
Lake Lure started filling back up last week. Hurricane Helene had drained and damaged it in September of 2024. Officials want the lake ready by Memorial Day weekend.
The Rocky Broad River flows into Lake Lure and overflows the town with debris from Chimney Rock, North Carolina after heavy rains from Hurricane Helene on September 28, 2024, in Lake Lure, North Carolina. Approximately six feet of debris piled on the bridge from Lake Lure to Chimney Rock, blocking access.
Photo by Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty ImagesLake Lure started filling back up last week. Hurricane Helene had drained and damaged it in September of 2024. Officials want the lake ready by Memorial Day weekend.
The town is working to bring water back to full pond at 990.5 mean sea level. Tests show the water quality remains safe and normal.
Mayor Carol Pritchett credited FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, AshBritt Environmental, Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, and several contractors. Without them, this wouldn't happen.
"Our lake — our namesake, our refuge, and our economic lifeline — is coming back stronger than ever," said Pritchett to WCNC.
The refill won't happen overnight. It can't. The lake is too big, and safety rules limit how fast water can rise. The water can rise no more than one foot per day.
Rain and weather will decide how quickly the lake fills. Officials can't promise an exact date.
"While we cannot yet confirm exactly when the lake will return to full pond, this marks a major turning point for Lake Lure," Pritchett said.
The storm hurt fish populations. Work has started to rebuild their habitats, but full recovery will take time and require expert studies.
The town hopes to reopen the lake for swimmers, boaters, and visitors by Memorial Day weekend, but they can't guarantee it.
