Buncombe County Lifts Open Burning Ban Amid Recovery Efforts

News Summary

Buncombe County is ramping up recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene and has lifted the open burning ban, allowing residents to burn natural vegetation with safety precautions. A new Helene Resource Center will open on April 14 to assist those impacted, offering guidance on FEMA applications and disaster recovery programs. Community support events, such as the Helene Recovery Resource Event on April 10, are also scheduled to help residents navigate the recovery process as debris removal continues in the area.

Buncombe County Ramps Up Recovery Efforts and Lifts Open Burning Ban

It’s a busy time in Buncombe County, where the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is still being felt. Recently, officials announced some exciting news that has many residents buzzing: the open burning ban has been lifted! This means that you can now burn naturally occurring vegetation, with a few important caveats.

What You Need to Know About Burning

While the ban is lifted, it’s crucial to follow fire safety regulations. Please remember to never leave your fires unattended and to be mindful of fire hazards. Keep in mind that burning is still prohibited within municipalities and unincorporated areas of Buncombe County. With storm debris scattered all around, safety is the priority, especially as we enter the wildfire season this spring in Western North Carolina.

A New Lifeline: The Helene Resource Center

Helene Resource Center is set to open on April 14 at 94 Coxe Avenue in Asheville. This center will serve as a one-stop-shop for those impacted by the hurricane, providing assistance for FEMA applications, Disaster Case Management, and other recovery programs.

The Helene Resource Center will be open from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it easier for residents to get their questions answered and access essential resources. Plus, if you’re worried about parking, don’t sweat it—there’s free parking available just across the street!

Transition of Services and Events

Before the Helene Resource Center officially opens, mark your calendars for April 10! A Helene Recovery Resource Event will take place at the Garren Creek Fire Department from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.. This event will teem with representatives from various recovery assistance programs, including FEMA, ready to lend a helping hand.

In addition, the Fairview Disaster Resource Center will close on April 11, paving the way for resources to transition to the Helene Resource Center.

Cleanup and Support Resources

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Agriculture Crop Loss Program until May 2, ensuring that help is on the way.

Debris Removal and Further Assistance

1.22 million cubic yards of debris have been removed from affected areas, and the right-of-way debris removal process has concluded. Residents still needing assistance can apply for Private Property Debris Removal up until April 15.

Community Care Station located at Owen Pool. This station offers a place for residents to access showers, laundry facilities, and drinking water from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.

Stay Connected

North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program to assist residents with their unique recovery needs and the Disaster Energy Assistance Program designed to help keep homes warm.

11 a.m., and be sure to check out the new Buncombe Recovers website for ongoing updates and resources.

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Additional Resources

• Fox Carolina: Helene Resource Center Open in Buncombe County
• WLOS: Buncombe County Launches Resources for Recovery Event Series
• Blue Ridge Now: Buncombe Helene Recovery Updates
• WLOS: Buncombe County Launches Helene Recovery Hub Website
• Wikipedia: Disaster Management
• Google Search: Hurricane Helene Buncombe County

Author: HERE Asheville