Jessica Drye Turner came to Facebook on Friday to publish a begging message, including a photo of her parents, sister (Megan), and nephew (Micah) standing on the roof of the house as floodwaters approached them.
Hurricane Helene’s widespread flooding forced Megan Drye and her 7-year-old son Micah, as well as her parents in their 70s, to flee their Asheville home.
Jessica noted in a Facebook post on Friday, “They are watching 18-wheelers and cars floating by.”
Unfortunately, Megan and her sisters lost three precious family members in the flood: the grandparents and Micah. Jessica shared on social media that her sister Megan found herself in a precarious situation, only to find freedom an hour later. She detailed what happened, writing, “Megan heard a voice instruct her to let go of the tree. She informed us, “That was the last thing I wanted to do.” My head was above water, and I’d sink if I let go.’ The current swept her away as she obeyed, leaving her wedged between two trailers for three hours before anyone discovered her. Those three hours were a tale in and of itself, with a voice speaking to her throughout. She persevered in her fight until she found salvation.
Jessica said in an update that the home had fallen, causing the three of them to drown. “I cannot convey in words the sorrow, heartbreak, and devastation my sisters and I are going through, nor can I imagine the pain before us,” she tweeted.
Yet, in an incredible demonstration of faith, she stated that the prayers of others have been assisting her and her surviving family members throughout this heartbreaking time.
In an update on Monday, September 30th, she wrote: “I will say, prayers have absolutely carried us thus far (and will continue to do so). I feel a little awful since I’m so at ease with everything. We’ll see them again one day, and nothing can persuade them to return after being with Jesus.”
Unfortunately, Turner’s loss is not an isolated incident.
According to the Associated Press, at least 130 people have died in five states as of October 1. These states include Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee.