In Asheville, North Carolina, the aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left the city essentially isolated due to damaged roads and the loss of power and cellphone service. The storm brought widespread destruction across the southern Appalachian region, leading to tragic consequences, including unidentified fatalities and numerous distressed relatives unable to contact their loved ones. The area witnessed heavy flooding and landslides, resulting in over 400 closed roads in North Carolina and the need for airlifted supplies to reach some communities.
One of the many individuals impacted by the flooding was nurse Janetta Barfield, whose vehicle became submerged as she left work at Asheville’s Mission Hospital. Despite witnessing a car safely navigate through standing water ahead of her, Barfield’s own car stalled, filling with water rapidly. Fortunately, a police officer nearby assisted her to safety amidst the escalating floodwaters.
The city of Asheville, known for its vibrant tourism and arts scene, faced significant challenges following the storm. Gas stations were shut down due to power outages, causing long lines at the few operational ones. Biltmore Village and the River Arts District, popular tourist areas, were inundated with floodwaters, leaving the normally bustling city unnaturally quiet.
With over 700,000 customers without electricity in North Carolina, including 160,000 in Buncombe County where Asheville is located, the situation remained dire. Major highways like Interstate 40 and I-26 were impassable, exacerbating the city’s isolation. Communication was severely disrupted, with no cellular service available, and residents were advised to boil their water for safety.
Local officials, grappling with a series of emergencies triggered by the storm, expressed astonishment at the scale of the disaster. Despite preparations, the storm’s intensity surpassed all expectations, catching authorities off guard. The communication breakdown hindered efforts to notify families of any casualties, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
In Greene County, Tennessee, the threat of a dam breach subsided as the river began to recede, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. However, the broader impact of the storm was evident in areas like Newport, where businesses suffered substantial losses. Kendale Ball, a cafe owner, recounted the unexpected devastation caused by the storm, underlining the challenges faced by local residents in mitigating its effects.
As communities struggle to recover from the havoc wreaked by Hurricane Helene, the region faces a long road to restoration and rebuilding. The collective resilience and spirit of solidarity displayed in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster.
