Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts Continue in Western North Carolina
Asheville, N.C. – Western North Carolina is in the midst of a challenging recovery phase following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which hit the area on the night of September 26 and continued into the following day. The storm brought heavy rains and hurricane-force winds, leading to downed trees and widespread power outages. Hundreds of thousands of residents remain without electricity and access to clean water, a situation officials are striving to address as quickly as possible.
Polk County Updates
In Polk County, officials are taking steps to assist residents during this time. The Polk County Schools district has announced that prepared meals will be distributed at Polk County High School on Tuesday, October 1, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., while supplies last. General commodities will be distributed at the same location.
Duke Energy has reported that it expects to restore power to most residents by Friday, October 4. The local government shared on social media that anyone in need of immediate assistance can contact dedicated phone lines at 828-722-5025 or 828-722-5026. For those wishing to assist Polk County, donations of non-perishable food and comfort supplies can be dropped off at Thermal Belt Outreach from October 1 through October 3, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m..
Henderson County States of Emergency
Henderson County is still under a State of Emergency, and a curfew from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. is currently in place. Emergency teams continue to respond to calls and conduct rescues while urging residents to limit travel to allow crews to work more effectively.
The Henderson County Transfer Station will remain operational on October 1 to accept storm debris. A free storm debris disposal site is in the works. Officials are receiving aid from federal, state, and local resources to speed up recovery efforts.
Meanwhile, the water system is being stabilized, with crews working to restore service across the county. However, all customers remain under a System Pressure Advisory and are advised to boil water or use bottled water until further notice.
Buncombe County’s Battles
The situation in Buncombe County is similarly dire. Officials have reported a rise in the death toll due to the storm to 40, with about 90,000 people still without power. Water system damage has been described as catastrophic, but efforts are underway to restore service, albeit at a slow pace. It is estimated that this process could take weeks. Despite the challenges, officials confirmed that the dam at Bee Tree remains intact.
Woodfin has reported no individuals trapped as all residents now have access to a road. Unfortunately, there was one fatality in the area due to a falling tree. Weaverville also anticipates some water service restoration this week but has issued a boil water advisory, urging residents to conserve water wherever possible.
State and Local Officials Respond
Governor Roy Cooper has taken an active role in recovery efforts, traveling to Western North Carolina to assess the damage firsthand. In recent announcements, Haywood County has confirmed four flood-related deaths, and the sheriff’s office is conducting wellness checks for community members.
Local authorities have advised residents to be vigilant against potential scammers now that relief efforts are ramping up. Officials caution that there may be attempts to exploit the community’s generosity during this difficult time and recommend verifying the legitimacy of any donations requests.
As recovery efforts continue, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local authorities regarding service updates and volunteer opportunities. The challenges posed by Hurricane Helene are significant, but community spirit and support are evident as Western North Carolina begins the long road to recovery.
