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Asheville Businesses Invited to Participate in Impact Survey After Hurricane Helene

Aerial view of Asheville showing flood damage after Hurricane Helene

News Summary

Asheville businesses are urged to participate in an impact survey assessing the financial consequences of Hurricane Helene. The survey aims to gather vital information to influence recovery policies and aid distribution. With significant local economic damage, including losses in the River Arts District, the input from all businesses, large and small, is crucial for understanding their challenges as they rebuild. Participants will also have a chance to win a $500 Visa gift card.

Asheville Businesses Encouraged to Take Part in Hurricane Helene Impact Survey

It’s a rainy evening in Western North Carolina as the region gears up for a wet spell, with meteorologists forecasting heavy rainfall that could lead to significant flooding. A chilly low of 36°F is expected, accompanied by southeast winds blowing gently at 5 to 10 mph. To make matters more challenging, there is a 100% chance of rainfall, and we could see totals of 1 to 2 inches, with some areas possibly receiving even more.

As the state rebounds from the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, businesses in Western North Carolina are being invited to lend their voices to a crucial impact survey aimed at assessing the storm’s financial consequences. This survey is not just a formality; it’s a vital tool designed to help shape much-needed federal and state policies for recovery and relief.

Hurricane Helene’s Devastation

Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida back in September 2024, left a trail of destruction as it marched northward, causing widespread devastation across several states. In North Carolina alone, the tragic death toll has reached a staggering 106 lives as of February 7, 2025, with the latest casualties connected to hypothermia complications following environmental exposure after local flooding destroyed homes. The storm was not only deadly but also inflicted an estimated $200 billion in economic damage nationwide, highlighting the immense challenges posed by such natural disasters.

In Western North Carolina, record rainfall led to significant flooding and landslides, with some areas reporting totals ranging from 12 to over 31.3 inches. These conditions have deeply impacted the local economy, particularly in Asheville’s arts sector, where around 80% of operations in the River Arts District were lost. This district contributes approximately $1 billion in sales to the regional economy, making its recovery crucial to the area’s financial health.

Participate and Help Shape Recovery Efforts

The North Carolina General Assembly is calling on all businesses affected by Hurricane Helene to participate in the survey, underscoring that it’s not limited to larger enterprises—they want to hear from everyone. This includes small businesses and those that were forced to close as a result of the storm. By sharing experiences, businesses can provide the information needed to address their challenges and help guide recovery efforts.

The survey is being conducted in partnership with local organizations, including Buncombe County and the City of Asheville. Input gathered from this survey will play an essential role in determining how recovery funds are allocated and what support is offered moving forward. The Economic Development Partnership sees local business input as pivotal to recovery, and they invite those affected to speak up.

A Chance to Win!

In a friendly gesture, participants in the survey will be entered into a drawing for a $500 Visa gift card, sponsored by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. It’s a little incentive to encourage businesses to take part in this important dialogue while capturing their experiences post-storm. Individuals can easily access the survey through the Asheville Chamber’s website.

Ongoing Challenges and Recovery Efforts

Despite the collaborative efforts in place for recovery, the path has not been without hiccups. Communication failures, especially with misinformation spread via social media concerning assistance from agencies like FEMA, have complicated matters during this recovery phase. Local communities and organizations, including the American Red Cross, are stepping in to provide crucial support as businesses look toward rebuilding.

As the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the importance of coming together as a community cannot be overstated. Each voice matters, and by participating in the survey, businesses can help create a comprehensive understanding of the challenges they face in their recovery journey. So, if you own a business in Western North Carolina, now is the time to make your experience heard. The future of recovery is in your hands!