The rescue involved local emergency services, Virginia State Police aviation units, and National Guard resources. Although rescue boats were deployed, the flooding and high winds made it extremely difficult to access the hospital safely. And for hours, helicopters could not be utilized due to unsafe flying conditions.
A Dangerous Mission
The five-hour rescue was conducted under treacherous conditions. Initially, 54 people sheltered in place on the rooftop while seven were transported via rescue boats.
By 5 p.m., all patients and staff were safely evacuated from Unicoi Hospital.
Ballad Health Chairman Alan Levine communicated directly with TEMA Director Patrick Sheehan, who provided vital resources. Despite efforts to use ambulances, the flooding worsened rapidly, preventing the vehicles from reaching the hospital.
Unicoi Hospital Status
All patients needing medical attention were transported to Johnson City Medical Center. Unicoi Hospital remains closed until further notice, and Ballad Health will assess the damage once floodwaters recede. Local roads accessing the hospital have also become impassable, according to reports from WJHL and WCYB.
