Asheville Faces Devastation from Hurricane Helene

News Summary

As Hurricane Helene strikes western North Carolina, Asheville and nearby areas are grappling with severe flooding and safety concerns. Schools and universities are closing, with many local institutions suspending classes to prioritize safety. Emergency response efforts are mobilizing as the community bands together to confront the aftermath of this destructive storm, grappling with tragic losses and ensuring support for strained residents.

Asheville Braces for Impact as Hurricane Helene Unleashes Chaos

As the powerful Hurricane Helene sweeps through western North Carolina, residents of Asheville and surrounding areas are feeling the storm’s impact first-hand. With severe flooding reported throughout the region, many local schools are announcing closures that will affect thousands of students and families.

School Closures Begin

Starting on September 29, schools across the area will shut their doors to ensure the safety of students and staff. Jackson County Schools have already confirmed that they will be closed on September 30 and October 1. A development day for staff will follow on October 2, but students will not be back until after that.

Similarly, Macon County Schools will also close for students on September 30, while teachers will have an optional workday. Over in Haywood County Schools, a longer closure stretches from September 30 through October 4, and all sporting events and activities have been put on hold. During the closure, staff will also have optional workdays from October 2 to October 4.

In Swain County Schools, students and staff will enjoy a day off on September 30, with updates to follow as the situation evolves. Meanwhile, Western Carolina University has decided to close its campus until October 4, canceling classes but ensuring that administration and public safety services remain operational.

Community Colleges and Universities Join Efforts

Haywood Community College will be closed from September 30 to October 6, with no classes scheduled and employees not expected to report for work. They have even canceled their scheduled Board of Trustees meeting for October 1. Likewise, the University of North Carolina Asheville has announced a suspension of classes until October 9. Students on campus will receive essential support, including security patrols, food, and water during the closure.

Local Government Steps Up

In response to the rampant flooding and safety concerns, local officials in McDowell County have launched a new form to connect with residents who may find themselves stranded due to the storm. Community efforts are still ongoing, and areas like The Fresh Market are stepping in to distribute free bottled water starting October 30—albeit after some previous distribution delays.

Additionally, the NC National Guard is mobilizing, airlifting vital supplies like food and water into the affected counties. In another show of support, the city of Asheville is partnering with Verizon to restore cellular service in areas severely impacted by the hurricane.

Safety Measures for Residents

Haywood County officials recently urged residents to boil water used for drinking and cooking due to contamination concerns. Across multiple counties, emergency shelters and donation centers have been established to help locals in need.

Tragic Losses Reported

Henderson County confirmed five storm-related deaths. It’s a grim reminder of how quickly natural disasters can change lives in an instant.

Mobilization of Volunteers

As the skies continue to pour over Western North Carolina, it’s crucial for everyone to stay informed, be safe, and lend a hand to neighbors and friends who may be struggling. We are all in this together, and the power of community will surely shine through even in the darkest of moments.

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Additional Resources

• Smoky Mountain News
• Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene
• WHSV
• Google Search: Hurricane Helene 2024
• The Mountaineer
• Catholic News Agency