Rescues underway as hundreds stranded by flooding in Lumberton

LUMBERTON, NC (WTVD) -- Gov. Pat McCrory said at a morning news conference that 1,500 people were left stranded in Lumberton after water from the Lumber River inundated parts of the city.

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WATCH: Chopper 11 HD flies over Lumberton


Boats and helicopters are being used for rescues. Governor McCrory said some people are being hoisted from their rooftops.




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McCrory said that the Federal Aviation Administration has placed temporary flight restrictions over the city. He asked operators of drones to keep them out of the airspace over flooded areas so they do not endanger helicopter teams.



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The river is running at record levels, currently 21.86', (old record was 20') with flood stage at 13'. It's expected to stay there for a while.