Hurricane Helene Leaves a Mark on Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, has been left reeling as Hurricane Helene made a huge impact on the region last week. The storm swept across the Southeast, particularly affecting Western North Carolina with its heavy rains and fierce winds, leading to significant flooding and widespread destruction. In a community as vibrant as Asheville, the effects of the hurricane are still being felt strongly, and there’s a lot to unpack regarding the aftermath.
Class Suspension Extended at UNC Asheville
In light of the destruction, the University of North Carolina at Asheville has made a tough but necessary decision. Classes won’t resume until at least October 28, a delay that will certainly have an impact on students and faculty alike. The university had originally planned to reopen on October 9, but as the storm’s effects continued to linger, officials deemed it safe to extend this closure. For the time being, the campus remains under Condition 3, which means that operations are suspended and only essential staff members are allowed on campus.
Staying Safe Amid the Storm
On the morning of September 26, just as the storm was closing in on Asheville, the university made the proactive decision to cancel classes. And while the campus overall sustained minimal structural damage, it has been without power, running water, and internet since late September. Chancellor Kimberly van Noort emphasized that “communication with our campus and the broader community has been extremely limited.” This shows just how difficult it has become for the community to connect during these challenging times.
Addressing Student Needs
Fortunately, the university was proactive in handling student well-being. The campus was home to about 1,600 students prior to the storm, and about 1,300 remained on campus during the hurricane. In an impressive effort, the university’s student affairs division conducted a door-to-door check to ensure every student was accounted for. Chancellor van Noort stated, “Throughout the last few days, we’ve worked diligently to ensure we knew where every student was on campus and to meet their needs.” Those who remained were provided with daily drinking water, three meals, and supportive services until they could find safe routes off-campus.
Committing to Recovery
Even though classes are suspended, students can still access mental health care at other UNC System schools. Chancellor van Noort shared a message of resilience, saying, “Bulldogs, you are resilient and we look forward to when we can welcome you home.” This sentiment speaks volumes about the spirit of the community and the university’s commitment to its students.
Supporting Each Other Through Difficult Times
The university is also making efforts to create a disaster relief fund to help those affected by Helene. As students and the community come together to heal, it’s essential that everyone has the support they need during recovery. Contributions to the fund can be made online, and those looking for further updates can find information available at the university’s dedicated page.
A Community’s Journey Forward
As Asheville and Western North Carolina grapple with the impact of Hurricane Helene, there’s a palpable sense of determination among residents and students alike. Recovery may be slow, but with each passing day, the community is finding ways to reconnect and rebuild. The vision of Asheville’s resilience shines bright, reminding everyone that even in the face of adversity, hope always finds a way to emerge.
As the situation continues to evolve, it’s clear that Asheville is not just a city but a community filled with inspiring individuals ready to tackle whatever comes their way. Together, they will navigate through the aftermath of this storm, aspiring toward brighter days ahead.
