Hurricane Helene has unleashed widespread destruction across Asheville, North Carolina, leaving thousands without power and prompting a massive rescue operation. As of Sunday morning, the North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) had deployed over 500 soldiers, airmen, and 200 vehicles, including high-water response vehicles and emergency aviation units.
The NCNG reported completing 16 air missions, rescuing 119 citizens and 11 pets. “Our National Guard air assets have identified people on the ground and utilized social media and emergency calls to locate, identify, and evacuate citizens in Western North Carolina,” the NCNG shared in a post on X.
The storm triggered historic flooding and landslides across the region, particularly affecting areas like Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, where the Rocky Broad River overflowed, sweeping debris into surrounding towns. The largest rescue operation took place north of Asheville in Buncombe County, where 41 individuals were saved in a single mission. The NCNG has also transported over 34,000 pounds of critical supplies, including food, water, and medical aid, to impacted communities. Air assets and personnel from neighboring states like Connecticut, Maryland, and Ohio have joined the efforts.
Residents were briefly alarmed by an evacuation notice issued by the Black Mountain Police Department, warning of a potential failure at the Bee Tree Dam. However, within half an hour, authorities cleared the area, confirming the dam’s safety. “The dam at Bee Tree is functioning as it was engineered. Water is coming through the spillway as intended,” the Asheville Fire Department shared in an update.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his gratitude to first responders during a Sunday press briefing, highlighting the scale of the disaster. “North Carolina is strong, and our first responders are the best in the nation. I am thankful for their hard work and for risking their lives to protect all North Carolinians,” Cooper said.
During a rally in Erie, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump also acknowledged the devastation. “It’s been absolutely devastating. And God be with you all. It’s been a rough one,” Trump stated, sending prayers to those affected in the South, particularly in western North Carolina.
In Asheville, many businesses have been severely damaged by the storm, including Balm Salon. Its owner shared the heartbreaking news on social media: “It’s with the heaviest hearts and sickest stomachs that I make this post… Balm salon was completely destroyed by the flooding from the French Broad,” the owner wrote. She launched a GoFundMe to support herself and her staff as they face rebuilding their business. “Anything helps, I know our whole community is hurting… I love you all,” she added.
On Sunday, U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra declared a public health emergency for North Carolina, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to addressing health impacts. “We are working closely with state and local health authorities… and stand ready to provide additional public health and medical support,” Becerra said.
This declaration follows President Joe Biden’s emergency declarations for multiple states, including Florida, Alabama, and North Carolina, to streamline the deployment of federal resources. Dawn O’Connell, Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, reassured the public that teams are being sent to assist. “We are evaluating the impacts of the storm and requests for federal assistance as they come in,” O’Connell said.
Country music star Luke Combs also announced plans to support recovery efforts in North Carolina, stating on social media, “Me and my team have been making some calls and I think we’ve got something really special lined up to help the Carolinas.” Fellow artist Chase Rice echoed this, expressing his intent to help, saying, “I want in, God bless Carolina.”
As emergency teams continue to reach isolated areas, the death toll, currently at 11, is expected to rise, according to Governor Cooper. He urged residents to stay off roads in western North Carolina to allow emergency crews to carry out their work safely.
