Erwin, TN – Catastrophic flooding triggered by the remnants of Hurricane Helene led to an emergency rescue operation at Unicoi County Hospital in Erwin, Tennessee. Helicopters were dispatched to rescue dozens of patients and staff who had been stranded on the hospital’s roof as floodwaters submerged much of the building.
Ballad Health, the healthcare system that operates Unicoi County Hospital, confirmed that all individuals trapped by the floodwaters were successfully rescued. The flooding caused by Helene has ravaged parts of Unicoi County, overwhelming local infrastructure and leaving many residents without access to emergency services.
Rescue Mission: “Dangerous Operation”
The rapid flooding occurred late Tuesday night, as torrential rains caused Nolichucky River and surrounding waterways to swell beyond capacity, submerging streets, homes, and the hospital itself. Emergency crews described the mission to airlift patients and staff to safety as a “dangerous operation.”
“Our main priority was getting everyone out of Unicoi County Hospital as quickly as possible,” said a Ballad Health spokesperson. “Thanks to the efforts of local responders and medical teams, we were able to evacuate everyone safely.”
Impact on Unicoi County and Surrounding Areas
The flooding in Unicoi County, including Erwin, TN, is part of the wider devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which has brought record rainfalls and flash floods across Tennessee. Local reports from WCYB described the scene in Erwin as “apocalyptic,” with entire neighborhoods under water and roads cut off.
Emergency officials have urged residents to stay inside and avoid traveling as numerous roadways remain impassable. Nearby areas like Unicoi County TN, and the town of Erwin, have reported extensive damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Other healthcare facilities in the region are working to accommodate patients from Unicoi County Hospital.
Ballad Health Statement and Next Steps
Following the successful evacuation, Ballad Health praised the swift response of local authorities. “We’re grateful for the local and state emergency teams, as well as the National Guard, who played key roles in rescuing patients and personnel from Unicoi County Hospital during this disaster,” the healthcare system said in a statement.
It remains unclear when Unicoi County Hospital will reopen, as flood damage assessments are ongoing. Local officials have expressed concern over the long-term recovery, given the severe impact on Erwin, TN, and surrounding areas. Residents in Unicoi County are advised to monitor updates from emergency services as the situation continues to unfold.
Flooding Threat Continues Across Tennessee
As Hurricane Helene continues to weaken, the flood threat across Tennessee remains high. Emergency crews in Eastern Tennessee are responding to multiple incidents of flash flooding, road closures, and damage to infrastructure, including nearby regions such as Boone, NC, and Rutherford County. Governor Bill Lee has declared a state of emergency, calling for federal assistance in the ongoing response and recovery efforts.