ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Following the passage of Hurricane Helene through Western North Carolina at the end of September, various counties in the region are working towards recovery. The aftermath of the hurricane has left a trail of destruction, with communities facing challenges in restoring essential services like water and power.
In Jackson County, the Public Schools have announced that students will not have classes for the rest of the week. While teachers have an optional workday, the school system will continue to provide meals to students at specific locations until Friday. The town of Black Mountain is still dealing with water and sewer system issues, with power being restored partially in the downtown area. However, most of Black Mountain, along with Montreat and Ridgecrest, remain without power.
In Henderson County, Resource Hub locations are offering water distribution and other supplies to residents in need. The county-wide curfew from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. remains in place as the county continues to operate under a State of Emergency. Meanwhile, in Canton, the Mayor has provided updates on the progress of restoring water and power to residents. Businesses are slowly reopening, but caution is advised due to remaining hazardous areas.
Buncombe County has reported storm-related fatalities and is working on recovery efforts. Water distribution sites have been set up in collaboration with organizations like MANNA FoodBank. The City of Asheville has opened multiple distribution sites for residents in need of water. Various officials, including local representatives and state leaders, are coordinating relief efforts and addressing community needs.
As the region continues its recovery process from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, communities are coming together to support one another. Efforts are being made to provide essential supplies like food, water, and other resources to those who have been affected by the hurricane. The resilience of the residents in facing these challenges is evident as they work towards rebuilding and restoring their communities.