No water, no power and no quick answers in Burke. Morganton water plant swamped by floodwaters. Duke Energy estimates 3-4 days until power restored.

The news about Morganton's water system was bleak Saturday morning.

"The City of Morganton Water Plant is not in operation," the city said on its website. "This is due to the raw water pump station being underwater. Any water in the system will soon be depleted."

Jonelle Sigmon, public information officer for the city of Morganton, said, "We ask that our customers please understand and be patient while repairs and replacement of equipment can be initiated. In order for this to happen, the floodwaters must recede so that crews can mobilize at the site."

She said repairs will take time. It's not clear how long that will be.

Morganton's water system supplies portions of Burke County, Brentwood Water, Town of Drexel and the Lake James communities, the release said.

The news from Duke Energy wasn't any better.

Duke's primary power feeds for the city of Morganton's substations are underwater, Sigmon said.

Duke Energy, which feeds the city power from its nuclear substation in South Carolina, estimated it would be between 3-4 days before power is restored.

"Please know that this is an unprecedented time and we are working as hard as we can to restore power," Sigmon said in another statement Saturday. "We will keep you updated as soon as new information becomes available."

Chrissy Murphy is a staff writer and can be reached at or at 828-432-8941.

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