🌳 Chantal Brings Historic Flooding to Central NC

In this issue:

• Chantal Brings Historic Flooding to Central NC

• 5.8 Million Gallons of Wastewater Spill into Eno River

• Former Mayor’s Daughter Joins Durham Mayoral Race

Approx Read Time: 3 mins

Chantal Brings Historic Flooding to Central NC

Tropical Storm Chantal dropped 5 to 10 inches of rain across the Triangle over the weekend, overwhelming creeks and rivers and triggering what meteorologists called a 500- to 1,000-year flood event in parts of Moore, Chatham, Orange, and Durham counties. One person died, states of emergency were declared, and dozens of water rescues were carried out.

• 500-Year Flooding: Rain totals in Chapel Hill, Siler City, and Pinehurst reached rare statistical levels, meaning these events have just a 0.1 to 0.2 percent chance of occurring in any given year.

• Infrastructure Impact: Roads were washed out, power outages hit tens of thousands, and the Eno River in Durham surged to record-breaking levels.

• How to Help: Local recovery efforts are underway, and nonprofits are coordinating donations for impacted residents. Donate here >>

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See photos from Chapel Hill’s Eastgate >>

5.8 Million Gallons of Wastewater Spill into Eno River

Following severe flooding from Tropical Storm Chantal, the City of Durham reported that over 5.8 million gallons of wastewater were discharged into the Eno River after a major lift station was damaged. The incident triggered an environmental alert and contamination concerns downstream.

• Infrastructure Failure: Floodwaters damaged the Eno Creek Lift Station, which transports sewage, making it inaccessible for over 24 hours.

• Contamination Warning: Residents are urged to avoid standing or flowing water downstream from the station due to possible contamination.

• Ongoing Repairs: City crews are working to restore service using emergency pumps or by bringing the station back online by Tuesday night.

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Former Mayor’s Daughter Joins Durham Mayoral Race

Anjanée Bell, daughter of former longtime Durham Mayor Bill Bell, has officially filed to challenge incumbent Mayor Leonardo Williams in the 2025 election. Bell, an arts coordinator and single mother of three, enters the race with a focus on housing, public safety, and community equity.

• Campaign Vision: Bell launched her “Durham is H.O.P.E.” campaign, emphasizing tenant protections, local business growth, and inclusive development.

• Williams Seeks Second Term: The current mayor, who popularized the phrase “Durham is dope,” is running on a platform of affordable living, innovation, and city pride.

• Election Timeline: The primary is set for Oct. 7, and the general election will take place on Nov. 4. Three City Council seats are also on the ballot.

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Storytime on the Roof
The Durham Hotel Rooftop
Saturday, July 9
Morning stories, songs, and dancing for all ages, hosted by Durham County Library.
Details >>

Art Swap & Artist Mingle
Ment Beverage Co.
Thursday, July 10
A free community event hosted with Durham Art Guild to connect artists and swap creative work.
Details >>

Dog Meet & Greet
Dram & Draught Durham
Saturday, July 12
Meet adoptable dogs, sip a themed cocktail, and support APS of Durham at this monthly pet-friendly event.
Details >>

Free Summer Concert at Duke Park
Duke Park
Saturday, July 13
Enjoy jazz-funk fusion from Husbandos and bluegrass favorites from Counterclockwise String Band at this family-friendly outdoor show.
Details >>

Lutra Brunch Pop-Up
Cheeni (Downtown Durham)
Sunday, July 13
Get an early taste of Lutra Bakery’s future café with sweet and savory brunch favorites before their full opening at American Tobacco Campus.
Details >>

DPW Tag Festival 2025
Durham Convention Center
Sunday, July 13
DEADLOCK Pro-Wrestling brings high-energy tag team matches and big-name talent to downtown Durham for its third annual festival.
Details >>

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