This post will be updated on an ongoing basis.
Note: Always check with your local county emergency services or visit their official websites for the most up-to-date information.
As Western North Carolina grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, our communities have once again demonstrated their resilience and spirit of mutual support. The storm’s unexpected intensity caught many off guard, leaving a trail of destruction that will take months, if not years, to recover from fully.
Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina with significant force, causing widespread damage, especially in the Appalachian region. The storm’s high winds, topping 100 mph in some places like Mount Mitchell, contributed to extensive power outages and infrastructure damage. The flooding set new records in some areas, surpassing previous events such as those caused by Tropical Storm Fred in 2021.
On September 29, 2024, the federal government granted a Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. This declaration provides crucial federal resources for immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. It enables affected residents in 25 counties, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, to access individual assistance, such as temporary housing and home repairs. Additionally, public assistance funds are available to help local governments, state agencies, and non-profits recover costs related to infrastructure repairs and emergency response. This declaration emphasizes the gravity of the disaster and the need for a coordinated effort between federal, state, and local agencies to support impacted communities.
The Damage
Hurricane Helene’s path through our mountain communities has left significant damage. At the storm’s peak, over a million people were without power. Though crews are actively restoring services, many residents in the region are still without electricity and will be without it for days and weeks to come. Search and rescue teams have been deployed, with over 550 National Guard personnel assisting local efforts. There have been multiple fatalities, and the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue
- Widespread flooding in low-lying areas, particularly along major rivers and their tributaries
- Numerous landslides blocking roads and threatening homes across the region
- Extensive power outages affecting tens of thousands of residents
- Damage to local businesses, infrastructure, and homes in multiple counties
Local Resources
For those affected by the hurricane, here are trusted local resources by county:
Emergency Services Contact Information
- Alexander County: (828) 632-9336
- Alleghany County: (336) 372-4455
- Ashe County: (336) 846-5521
- Avery County: (828) 733-8210
- Buncombe County: (828) 250-6650
- Burke County: (828) 433-6609
- Caldwell County: (828) 757-1424
- Catawba County: (828) 465-8230
- Clay County: (828) 389-6465
- Cleveland County: (980) 484-5050
- Gaston County: (704) 866-3300
- Haywood County: (828) 452-6600
- Henderson County: (828) 697-4728
- Jackson County: (828) 631-2215
- Lincoln County: (704) 736-8660
- Macon County: (828) 349-2067
- Madison County: (828) 649-3911
- McDowell County: (828) 652-3982
- Mecklenburg County: (704) 336-3000
- Mitchell County: (828) 688-2139
- Polk County: (828) 894-0188
- Rutherford County: (828) 287-6075
- Transylvania County: (828) 884-3108
- Watauga County: (828) 264-3761
- Wilkes County: (336) 903-7600
- Yadkin County: (336) 679-4232
- Yancey County: (828) 682-2124
Additional Local Resources
- Red Cross Western North Carolina: 1-800-RED-CROSS
- NC 211: Dial 211 for comprehensive local services
- MANNA FoodBank: mannafoodbank.org/find-food/
- Mountain Projects (serving Haywood and Jackson counties): mountainprojects.org
- Eblen Charities (serving Buncombe County): eblencharities.org
- Grandfather Mountain State Park (for updates on park conditions): ncparks.gov/grandfather-mountain-state-park
- Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority (for local updates): bannerelk.org
- Beech Mountain Resort (for resort and area updates): beechmountainresort.com
- Town of Newland: townofnewland.com
- Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity: ashevillehabitat.org
The Vital Role of Local Journalism
In times of crisis, the importance of reliable, local journalism becomes crystal clear. Our community newspapers and radio stations have been working tirelessly to keep us informed and connected:
- Asheville Citizen-Times
- Blue Ridge Public Radio
- Mountain Xpress
- The McDowell News
- Avery Journal-Times
- The Taylorsville Times
- Alleghany News
- Jefferson Post (Ashe County)
- Watauga Democrat
- The News Herald (Burke County)
- Caldwell Journal
- The Observer News Enterprise (Catawba County)
- Clay County Progress
- Shelby Star (Cleveland County)
- Gaston Gazette
- The Mountaineer (Haywood County)
- Hendersonville Times-News
- Sylva Herald (Jackson County)
- Lincoln Times-News
- The Franklin Press (Macon County)
- News-Record & Sentinel (Madison County)
- Charlotte Observer (Mecklenburg County)
- Mitchell News-Journal
- Polk County News Journal
- The Daily Courier (Rutherford County)
- Transylvania Times
- Wilkes Journal-Patriot
- Yadkin Ripple
- Yancey Common Times Journal
These local outlets, deeply rooted in our communities, offer a level of detail and understanding that national news simply can’t match. They know our neighborhoods, our local government structures, and the unique challenges we face in the mountains.
Supporting Our Local News
As we rely heavily on these sources during this crisis, it’s crucial to remember that local journalism faces its challenges. Many outlets are struggling financially, yet their service is more vital than ever.
Consider supporting our local news organizations through subscriptions or donations if you can. By doing so, we’re investing in the health and resilience of our communities.
Moving Forward
The road to recovery will be long, but Western North Carolina has always been known for its strong sense of community. As we clean up, rebuild, and heal, let us remember to check on our neighbors, support our local businesses, and stay informed through our trusted local news sources.
Together, we’ll weather this storm and emerge stronger on the other side. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay connected, Western North Carolina.
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