Buncombe County Launches Emergency Shelters in Response to Ongoing Crisis

Buncombe County Opens New Emergency Shelters Amid Ongoing Crisis

This weekend has been a challenging time for the residents of Buncombe County, South Carolina as authorities work diligently to support those affected by recent disasters. In a heartening move, officials announced the opening of two new emergency shelters at the AB-Tech Asheville Campus, which will complement the existing facilities currently being utilized at the WNC Agriculture Center.

Capacity Concerns Lead to New Solutions

As many of you may already know, the WNC Agriculture Center has been operating at full capacity, making it essential for the county to step up and offer additional shelter options. It’s truly a community effort, as Buncombe County has teamed up with organizations like the Red Cross and AB Tech to ensure everyone affected has a safe place to stay.

What to Bring to the Shelters

If you find yourself in need of shelter, the county has shared some helpful tips on what to bring along when you arrive. Essentials like clothing, personal hygiene items, and any necessary medications are recommended. Keep in mind that due to public health regulations, pets are not allowed at these two new shelters. For those with furry friends, it’s advised to check for openings at the WNC Agriculture Center which may accommodate pets.

Help is On the Way

In addition to the shelters, Buncombe County officials have mentioned plans to add more resources as they work through this challenging situation. This includes transportation shelter operations, ensuring that residents who need assistance can access these facilities safely and easily. Meanwhile, the county has also released a new form to help families report missing people, which is incredibly important during these uncertain times.

Emergency Rescues Underway

As the community rallies together, local emergency teams are hard at work conducting swiftwater boat rescues. These dedicated volunteers have been active overnight, performing more than 130 water missions since the crisis began. Buncombe County Fire Marshal Kevin Tipton has raised an important caution—“I cannot stress enough how important it is to stay away from the water,” he stated. The conditions are hazardous, with down power lines, sewage, and various debris making it unsafe for anyone to venture near.

If You Need Help, Don’t Call 911

As always, the community’s safety is paramount. Officials urge residents to refrain from calling 911 unless it’s a life-threatening emergency. The emergency line should not be used for updates on road conditions, power restoration, or internet issues. Instead, neighbors can check in with local authorities through other channels for such updates.

A Community United

As Buncombe County continues to navigate this crisis, it’s evident that the spirit of the community remains strong. Neighbors supporting neighbors is what this time requires, and together, we can overcome these challenges. Whether it’s by helping to staff shelters or volunteering time and resources, everyone has a role to play in restoring safety and calm to our beloved community.

Stay tuned for further updates and continue to support each other. We are all in this together, and Buncombe County will emerge stronger from this experience.