The disaster has disrupted some of the community's most basic needs, prompting the establishment of multiple water distribution sites. But those working on the recovery say water is only one of many supplies in short supply.

Melissa White, owner of the Great American Rodeo Company, said donated water is arriving, including contributions from Publix. Still, she said other essentials are urgently needed, particularly as crews work into the night.

"I know tonight when I was helping at Mustang Sally's we did not have a whole lot of headlamps," White said. "We were needing supplies like that, because people are ready to work and we're working here at night and there's, as you can see, not a lot of light."

The American Red Cross has been distributing emergency supplies in McCaysville since the floodwaters receded. Bree Adam, a Red Cross representative, said the organization is providing cleanup kits, gloves, masks, water and other items to affected residents.

Business owners and volunteers have spent days and nights hauling away debris. Gavin Loth, who owns the award-winning artisan soap company Bearfoot in Blue Ridge with his wife, said the financial toll is severe, particularly for businesses without adequate insurance.

"Unfortunately, a lot of these businesses either don't have insurance or they don't have the ability to cover flood insurance or pay for catastrophic insurance," Loth said. "So all of our stuff was completely destroyed."

While some business owners attempt to salvage what remains of their livelihoods, others untouched by the flooding have joined the cleanup effort. Volunteer Parker Saunders said he felt compelled to help.

"A lot of people make this their living, you know. We all have to have money to live life," Saunders said. "I honestly just feel bad for them and I just wanted to come help them, and help them build it up and get everything right again."

The Salvation Army and other organizations planned to provide free breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday for people affected by the flooding. Several fundraisers are underway to support local businesses and residents, and McCaysville First Baptist Church is accepting recovery donations.

The scale of the damage has raised concerns about the region's preparedness for extreme weather and the financial vulnerability of small businesses that anchor downtown economies. As climate-driven disasters intensify, recovery advocates say access to affordable flood insurance and emergency resources will be critical for communities like McCaysville.