More than a week has passed since Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in western North Carolina, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. As the region grapples with the aftermath of the storm, over 150,000 customers are still without power, adding to the challenges faced by authorities.
In Buncombe County, which encompasses Asheville and Black Mountain, nearly 43% of customers are currently experiencing power outages. The situation is even more dire in Henderson County, where almost 57% of customers remain in the dark. The impact of the storm is also evident in the smaller counties of Mitchell, Yancey, and Avery, where 64%, 57%, and 45% of customers are without power, respectively.
Aside from the power outages, authorities are also working tirelessly to locate missing individuals, restore water services, and continue the overall recovery efforts in the devastated region. The widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene has posed significant challenges for the affected communities, requiring a coordinated and sustained response.
Despite the challenges, the resilience and solidarity of the local residents and emergency responders shine through as they come together to overcome the adversity brought about by the storm. The road to recovery may be long, but with determination and support, the communities in western North Carolina are steadfast in their efforts to rebuild and restore normalcy.