Western North Carolina Reels From Helene: ‘This Is a Disaster’
Western North Carolina is reeling from the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, which brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region over the weekend. The storm caused widespread flooding, power outages, and property damage, leaving many residents in a state of shock and disbelief.
“This is a disaster,” said Mark Johnson, a resident of Asheville. “I’ve never seen anything like this before. The roads are washed out, trees are down everywhere, and homes have been destroyed. It’s going to take a long time to recover from this.”
In Asheville, the French Broad River overflowed its banks, flooding homes and businesses in low-lying areas. The city’s water treatment plant was also flooded, leading to a boil water advisory for residents. Many roads were closed due to flooding and debris, making it difficult for emergency responders to reach those in need.
In nearby Hendersonville, the storm caused a mudslide that destroyed several homes and forced the evacuation of dozens of residents. The Red Cross has set up shelters in the area to provide assistance to those who have been displaced.
“We are working around the clock to assess the damage and provide support to those affected by the storm,” said Sarah Thompson, a spokesperson for the Red Cross. “Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by this disaster.”
Governor Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency for 11 counties in western North Carolina, allowing for additional resources to be allocated to the region. The National Guard has been deployed to assist with rescue and recovery efforts, and FEMA is on standby to provide federal assistance if needed.
As residents begin the long process of cleaning up and rebuilding, many are grateful for the outpouring of support from their neighbors and community organizations. Local churches and non-profit groups have been mobilizing volunteers to help with debris removal, shelter assistance, and other recovery efforts.
“This storm may have caused a lot of damage, but it has also brought out the best in our community,” said Johnson. “People are coming together to help each other in any way they can. That’s what gives me hope as we begin to recover from this disaster.”
As the cleanup efforts continue, residents are urged to stay informed about road closures, boil water advisories, and other safety precautions. The impact of Tropical Storm Helene may be felt for weeks or even months to come, but the resilience and spirit of the people of western North Carolina will help them weather this storm and emerge stronger on the other side.