The community of Stehekin, known for its scenic isolation, faced unprecedented challenges following a powerful storm that struck the area on Thursday, leading to widespread devastation. Flooding and debris flows have caused significant damage, washing away vital infrastructure, including the sewage treatment plant and leading to the loss of power in the region. Roads have become impassable, compounding the isolation experienced by residents.
The repercussions of the storm extend beyond Stehekin, affecting access to nearby Holden Village, with the road from Lucerne currently rendered unusable. Chelan County Emergency Management teams are actively assessing the severe damage, recognizing that recovery efforts will require substantial resources and assistance from county, state, and federal entities.
In response to the dire need for supplies, the Lake Chelan Boat Company has mobilized its barge to deliver water and other essential items to Stehekin, while regular ferry services have been suspended, making boat access to the Landing impossible at the moment.
The recovery process from the storm is expected to be extensive and time-consuming. Immediate priorities include restoring power, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and providing food and other essential items to resident. There is a race against time as recovery efforts must progress swiftly to have roads and transport routes operational before the onset of winter snow.
Long-time journalist and Chelan resident Jerry Isenhart, who operates Lake Chelan Cams, has been closely following the situation. He reported on the conditions in Stehekin, noting that his popular Stehekin camera is currently offline due to the outage.
Despite the daunting situation, the community has shown resilience in the face of adversity, and the collective effort of local organizations and residents provides hope for a swift recovery. The pathway ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but with support, Stehekin can rebuild and recover.