Asheville Residents Describe Devastation After Hurricane Helene

Workers clear debris in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, in Cedar Key, Fla., Friday, Sept. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Residents of Asheville, North Carolina, woke up to a scene of chaos and destruction after Hurricane Helene brought severe flooding and debris to the city. Local natives Maxwell Kline and Samuel Hayes described the aftermath as 'complete pandemonium.'

Kline and Hayes reported that the River Arts District neighborhood was heavily impacted, with floodwaters contaminated with oil submerging the area. They mentioned that several bourbon distilleries in the vicinity were underwater, adding to the devastation.

'A lot of businesses are completely wrecked. I've never seen anything like that since I've lived here. It's absolutely a tragedy,' said Maxwell Kline, expressing the shock and dismay felt by many residents.

River Arts District heavily impacted by contaminated floodwaters.

Residents described the scene as 'complete pandemonium.'

Bourbon distilleries submerged, adding to the devastation.

Hayes recounted receiving distress calls from his employees, detailing fallen trees on roofs, flooding in homes, and mudslides. He described the situation as 'complete pandemonium' and emphasized the long road to recovery that lies ahead for the city.

The impact of the hurricane was further exacerbated by widespread power outages, loss of internet and cell phone service, and the unavailability of essential supplies. Kline highlighted the challenges faced by residents, stating, 'All the gas pumps are down. Can't get anything right now – no food you can buy, no gas, nothing.'

Despite the devastation, Kline expressed confidence in the resilience of the Asheville community, noting that the city would come together to rebuild and recover from the disaster. 'Asheville is a small, tightly knit community that will band together and rebuild their city,' he said.

Hayes raised concerns about environmental contamination, noting the presence of oil in the floodwaters and the potential impact on groundwater. He described the scene of debris floating down the road, including whisky barrels and oil barrels, painting a grim picture of the aftermath of the storm.

The aftermath of Hurricane Helene serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of such events.