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Asheville Launches New Storm Debris Dashboard for Cleanup

Dashboard displaying storm debris collection data in Asheville

News Summary

Asheville has introduced a new storm debris dashboard to aid residents in tracking cleanup efforts following Hurricane Helene. The dashboard provides real-time updates on debris collected, with Buncombe County reporting over 1.22 million cubic yards removed thus far. Residents are encouraged to participate in the Private Property Debris Removal program and must adhere to deadlines for storm debris placement. Meanwhile, excessive debris poses complications for firefighting efforts in the region.

Asheville Takes Charge with New Storm Debris Dashboard for Hurricane Helene Cleanup

Real-time Updates to Keep Residents Informed

Asheville has stepped up its game when it comes to tackling the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The city has officially launched a shiny new storm debris dashboard aimed at providing all the important details that residents need to know about debris collection efforts. Whether you’re curious about how much debris has been scooped up or what’s still lingering out there, this dashboard is here to help!

All the Numbers You Need at Your Fingertips

So, what can you expect from this handy tool? The dashboard gives real-time updates on a variety of data points, including how many cubic yards of debris have been collected, the amounts gathered from both right-of-ways and waterways, as well as mud and silt collection. This offering marks a significant change for the city, making it easier for everyone to stay in the loop about what’s happening during this cleanup process.

Buncombe County has reported a whopping 1.22 million cubic yards of debris has been removed since the storm hammered the area. If you want a reference point, initial estimates of total storm debris were as high as three million cubic yards, but thankfully, this number has been revised downward as cleanup activities continue to ramp up.

Calling All Residents: Debris Removal Program

For residents still grappling with debris on their properties from Hurricane Helene, now is the time to act! Asheville locals are being urged to apply for the Private Property Debris Removal program by April 15 if they haven’t done so already. This program is designed to make the cleanup process easier and, best of all, it’s cost-free!

The previously used “progress meter” that recorded three million cubic yards will soon be replaced with a more accurate volume display, reflecting exactly how much debris has been collected as efforts advance in Asheville.

Oh, and just so residents are aware, the deadline to place storm debris for collection on the right-of-way is March 1. After this date, contractors will do a final sweep for any additional debris until April 1.

Sorting Out the Debris

When it comes to sorting debris, residents are advised to make sure everything is organized but to avoid using bags for collection unless it is absolutely necessary. If bags must be used, clear bags are preferred over black ones for easier identification.

As of February 13, 2025, Asheville has seen an impressive collection of over 385,113 cubic yards of debris, which translates to about 12.8% of the estimated total. So while there’s still a long way to go, progress is definitely being made!

The Buzz About Debris Assistance

The Buncombe County debris removal assistance program has also seen a surge in interest, with nearly 1,100 residents applying so far. It’s a simple process; residents fill out a cost-free application, which is then reviewed and inspected before any debris removal takes place.

And it seems that people are working furiously to seek help, as the Buncombe County Hotline receives around 100 calls daily related to debris inquiries.

Firefighting Complications from Excessive Debris

However, it’s not just cleanup operations that are in full swing; the excessive storm debris is complicating firefighting efforts in the region. Wildfires have devastated more than 17,000 acres in the Carolinas, and officials are noting that critical fire activity is still ongoing near Asheville, particularly with the Deep Woods Fire and Black Cove Fire—currently reported at 30% and 17% containment, respectively, as of Friday.

With rising temperatures, low humidity, and windy conditions ahead, officials are stressing the urgency of tackling both cleanup and fire prevention.

In summary, Asheville is making great strides in recovery from Hurricane Helene, and with community cooperation, we can all help in bringing our beautiful city back to normal.