For some Cumberland homeowners, any hurricane forecast brings flashbacks

Hurricane Matthew in 2016 washed across North Carolina, flooding roads, businesses and homes. Paul White, who lives on Pennystone Drive in Cumberland County is among those still waiting to make repairs, even as another hurricane, Ian, threatens heavy rain.

White's home was one of many in his neighborhood to suffer flood damage. Floodwaters from nearby Rockfish Creek were six feet deep.

"By the time I got here, it was already at mailbox level," he said.

White's walls and floors had to be replaced, all of appliances thrown out. FEMA came in to help, but the money they offered was nowhere near what was needed to make repairs.

"They offered around $14,000. The actual damage came to about $33,000," White said.

"I asked them: 'How are we supposed to fill the gap?' The question is still unanswered."

The storm also left a gapping hole in the backyard next door.

White still doesn't know when he'll be made whole. His home has new windows, and some repairs have been made inside, but it's not enough for anyone to move back in.

He warns others who live in flood prone areas to make sure to add flood insurance to their standard homeowners policy.