In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the picturesque town of Chimney Rock, North Carolina, has been left in ruins. Mayor Peter O’Leary described the scene as one of complete destruction, with every building and business either severely damaged or destroyed by the floodwaters.
Residents like Derek Hennessey have witnessed their hard work and dreams washed away. Hennessey watched as his deli, attached to Carter Lodge which he had spent over a year renovating, sank into the river. He expressed deep sadness at the loss, stating that the once peaceful town has now become unsafe due to the catastrophic damage.
Notable landmarks such as Bubba O’Leary’s General Store now lie in ruins, with houses on the riverbank destroyed and roads left impassable. The once charming balconies overlooking the water have been torn apart by the force of nature.
As the town begins the arduous task of search and rescue, plans are underway to bring in cadaver dogs to assist in locating any missing individuals. The recovery process is expected to be lengthy, with the town's economy, heavily reliant on tourism, likely to remain dormant for months.
Despite the overwhelming devastation, Mayor O’Leary remains optimistic about the community's resilience. He emphasized the strength and unity of the townspeople, likening them to the enduring rocks of Chimney Rock. Hennessey echoed this sentiment, stating that while the boulders may have been moved, the community will come together and rebuild.
