WAYNESVILLE, N.C. — The reopening of a segment of Interstate 40 in western North Carolina, which suffered significant damage during Hurricane Helene’s severe flooding, has been postponed. This delay was announced by the state Department of Transportation on Friday, following new asphalt collapse in the eastbound lanes.

The vital roadway linking North Carolina and eastern Tennessee was initially cut off in late September, as heavy flooding in the Pigeon River gorge eroded over a mile (1.6 kilometers) of the eastbound lanes of I-40.

Efforts to restore traffic previously concentrated on reopening the westbound lanes in Haywood County to accommodate two-way travel by the first week of January. However, the latest damage has led to a prolonged closure until engineers assess and confirm that the area is secure for drivers, especially given the narrow conditions in the gorge, as indicated in a release by the state Department of Transportation.

“It’s certainly an unfortunate situation,” commented division engineer Wanda Payne. “This presents a new challenge that we must address to ensure a safe environment for the traveling public.”

The department believes that the recent slope failure is a result of wet weather and freeze-thaw cycles. As part of the restoration efforts, contractors are working to stabilize one lane in each direction from Harmon Den to the Tennessee border, covering approximately 7 miles (11.3 kilometers).

Payne emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are eager to open the corridor as soon as it is deemed safe. We recognize that this is a crucial route for local residents, visitors, and transient travelers.”

Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage to infrastructure, impacting over 6,900 locations, as reported in a state government assessment of damage and needs. The Department of Transportation, along with its contractors and partners, has successfully reopened over 1,200 roads that were previously closed due to the storm’s effects.