Neighborhood slammed by Florence prepares for another storm

HAMPSTEAD, NC (WWAY) — As Hurricane Michael takes aim at the Carolinas, one of the area’s hardest hit by Florence is now preparing again.

Just a few weeks ago, sewage-filled floodwaters covered the Cross Creek neighborhood in Hampstead.

“They’re drying out their houses now. They got dehumidifiers, fans. And now, worried that, is it just going to get wet again?” said Cross Creek resident Sarah Robles.

Since the water receded, homeowners have been trying to prevent any further damage to their homes.

Now they must prepare for more rain and wind.

“Whoever has roof damage, has siding damage, has windows leaking, any of that stuff. That now, they went from drying and weeks of drying, to getting moisture again,” said Robles.

The neighborhood formed a makeshift campsite where people could sleep or pick up supplies.

That all had to be broken down ahead of Hurricane Michael.

“We have been here since about 8:30 this morning helping to pull all of this together and I believe there was about 35-40 volunteers that have helped out in some capacity,” said Emily Ondish, a volunteer with Renovation Church in Hampstead.

“It’s been really encouraging to watch the community here really rally around each other. This is just one pocket of our community, and I believe that it’s just a picture of what’s been happening all around the Hampstead area,” said Ondish.

After the storm passes, the tents and tables will not be set back up.

Neighbors can now get supplies directly from trailers.