Helene disaster and anonymous donation lead to big upgrades for Carter County EMA

ELIZABETHTON — Drawing on experiences from last year's Hurricane Helene disaster, the Carter County Emergency Management Agency has announced it has significantly upgraded its capabilities with a series of new equipment and technology upgrades that are intended to strengthen emergency response and preparedness throughout the county.The Carter County Mayor's office said the upgrades were made possible through an anonymous donation earlier this year, allowing the CCEMA to enhance its fleet, operations and communications tools.Among the most notable upgrades are a 30-foot Rock Solid mobile command post and a 2025 Ford F-350 STX truck.The command post is fully furnished and designed to function as a self-sufficient mobile operations center, equipped with heater and air conditioning, an electric awning, LED scene lighting, a conference table for six, four work stations, three display monitors, and integrated Starlink Internet with a T-Mobile cradle to ensure reliable connectivity anywhere in the region.The 2025 F-350 truck, featuring a 21,000 pound towing capacity, gooseneck hitch, spray-in bed liner, and bed cover, will primarily be used to two the command post and other heavy CCEMA assets across the county."These new assets strengthen our ability to respond quickly and effectively in times of crisis" said Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby. "They will not only enhance the safety and preparedness of our own community but also support our neighboring counties across the region when emergencies arise. This investment reflects our continued commitment to readiness, collaboration, and protecting the people we serve."Additional items, purchased through the donation include an aluminum carport to store and protect the equipment, a marked pop-up tent and matching tablecloth for public events, and professional video and media equipment to enhance the county's emergency operations center for both training and emergency activation. The Carter County Emergency Management Agency has also added a branded media wall for its public information officer to use when addressing the public or press during emergencies.Carter County Emergency Management Agency Director Cathy Umrichin said the new resources will make a lasting difference for both first responders and residents. "Without this generous donation to the Elizabethton-Carter County EMA, it would have taken years to obtain the equipment that was much needed, especially after what was seen during Helene," Umrichin said."Our purpose is to provide coordination and resources to the first responders of both the city and the county as well as ensure that residents are prepared for the next emergency. With these new assets, we can uphold our mission to mitigate the impacts from hazards, preserve life, minimize damage, respond effectively to emergencies, and assist with recovery throughout Carter County."The agency is also preparing to launch the Elizabethton-Carter County EMA mobile app, which will allow residents to receive real-time safety updates, preparedness information, and public safety news from both the city and the county. Once launched, the app will be available for download through the Apple App Store and Google Play.The new equipment was placed into service earlier this month and was first utilized during the Bassmaster Tournament at Watauga Lake, where it provided on-site command capabilities for CCEMA and partner agencies.