Woman recounts learning about fate of home during Dante, Va. flooding
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DANTE, Va. (WJHL) – On Friday, more than a dozen residents of the Dante community in Russell County had to be evacuated from their homes due to flash flooding.

Monday, volunteers are working to help those who have been impacted.

Many residents had to be evacuated from their homes, and over 20 individuals were rescued from flooding.

The Dante Rescue Squad and St. Paul Fire Department are gathering supplies and food for those who have been displaced.

Madison McMillian said she has been working since Saturday and has been volunteering with the Junior Rescue Squad for about 2 years.

“People lost homes, lost cleaning supplies, lost everything,” McMillian said. “So, we’re here in a time of need to help supply that, and it’s been a big blessing in turnout. We’re taking in donations for rakes, mops, shovels, anything, really.”

Claudia Mickles is a resident of Dante. She said she was not at home when she learned about the flooding, but her husband went to check on the damage.

“I just cried when I seen it,” Mickles said. “I thought everything was destroyed. The animals, the house, I thought it [had] completely went down the water.”

When the waters receded, Mickles learned the inside of the house was alright.

“We were able to salvage the stuff in the house, but not on the outside,” Mickles said. “They say that it’s…ready to be condemned.”

Mickles said the flood waters destroyed the siding on the house.

“It got up to a back bedroom window, which is pretty high,” Mickles said. “Yeah, it just destroyed the outside of the house.”

Despite her situation, Mickles said she is grateful to those helping her and others who have lost their homes.

“I’m glad that there is people out here trying to help us,” Mickles said. “I am grateful for that and just help every community that you can.”

For those who would like to make donations, the rescue squad is currently stationed at a hub in the Dante Community Center.

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