The documents recount the harrowing experience of the Cloyd family during Tropical Storm Helene, which caused severe flooding in East Tennessee. Matthew Cloyd, living in Illinois, received alarming news from his mother, Keli, about his father's dire situation as the storm progressed northward, bringing heavy rain and flooding to their home near the Nolichucky River. Despite the family's belief that their house, situated on a mound in the Appalachians, would be safe, the floodwaters quickly rose, leading to a desperate situation.
As the storm intensified, Keli and her husband, Steven, communicated through texts and videos, revealing the escalating danger as water began to inundate their property. Steven expressed growing concern for their safety, ultimately leading Keli to contact Matthew for help. Matthew, along with his family, embarked on a 700-mile journey to find his father, encountering widespread destruction along the way.
Upon arrival, they discovered Steven's Jeep abandoned in a field, but he was missing, prompting the family to seek assistance through social media and local authorities. They learned that Steven's dog, Orion, had been found safe, but the search for Steven continued, leaving the family feeling helpless and desperate for answers. Matthew expressed a desire to connect with others affected by the storm, emphasizing the shared experience of loss and uncertainty.
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