CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — There is controversy over an early-warning system meant to save lives during flash flooding in the North Carolina mountains.
A group of homeowners met Thursday with county leaders about flash flooding sirens being put up along Wilson Creek.
County leaders said they are worried how fast Wilson Creek rises during storms. Some homeowners said the noise to alert people along the creek is too much.
Greg Duncan said he is considering moving after the county erected a warning tower less than 300 feet from his home along Wilson Creek. He is worried about the sound his family will have to endure during a heavy rainstorm.
"That's our major concern -- the quality of life for our children -- and we've nothing but run up against brick walls," Duncan said.
County leaders said the five towers in the northwest part of the county will only go off during flash flood warnings and tornadoes. Those who enjoyed the creek Thursday see the need for some type of alert system after two people drowned here his summer.
"I was swimming down here one time and it was at my waist and then it was over my head," said visitor Samantha Lail.
"It is a whole lot of water coming through. If the sirens come on it lets people know to get out of the water," visitor David Smith said.
County officials said about 50,000 people visit Wilson Creek each year and most are from out of the area and aren't aware of the dangers of the water.
"They don't know how quickly it can rise. Hopefully these sirens will warn these people and they can get out of the way in time," said Lou Ann Kincaid with Caldwell County.
County officials said the sirens will not be activated for flash flood watches -- only warnings. They hope to have them working sometime next month.