In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina remains under a “DO NOT TRAVEL” advisory from the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Congressman Chuck Edwards provided updates on recovery efforts and urged residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Key updates include a timeline for restoring power to most Duke Energy customers in NC-11 by Friday, October 4. Over 150 additional roads have been cleared, and more resources are being sent to ensure continued access to food and water.
Emergency crews prioritize supplying drinkable water. A boil advisory affects 100 water systems, with 38 plants reporting no power. Congressman Edwards’ office secured an additional 12,000 cases of water from Pepsi Bottling Co., which will be distributed through Red Cross and United Way.
Henderson County worked with Edwards’ office to secure an industrial-sized generator for the Ingles Distribution Plant in Black Mountain. This will help restock empty stores in the area. As of September 29, over 81,270 gallons of water and 115,200 meals have been deployed throughout western counties.
The State of North Carolina has promised daily deliveries of trailer loads containing food and water through at least October 6. Resource hubs for distribution will open at noon today at various locations including Etowah Elementary and Rugby Middle School.
Approximately 396,000 customers remain without power in North Carolina, mainly in Western regions. Duke Energy aims to restore service by October 4 but warns that inaccessible areas may face delays. Over 18,000 linemen from multiple states and Canada are working on restoration efforts.
Road conditions remain hazardous with significant closures including parts of I-40 and severe damage reported in Transylvania County. The Asheville Regional Airport has resumed commercial flights as of today after closing due to flood risks last week.
Cell service is improving with the addition of temporary cell sites in several areas such as Dillsboro and Sylva. The North Carolina National Guard has deployed 650 soldiers and airmen along with vehicles for support operations including search and rescue missions.
Residents affected by Hurricane Helene can apply for Individual Assistance through FEMA if they reside in designated counties like Buncombe or Haywood. Over 2,000 survivors have registered for aid so far.
For those trying to connect with loved ones or needing shelter, several options are available across multiple counties including Buncombe’s A-B Technical Community College and Haywood County Government Armory.
Congressman Edwards emphasized ongoing communication: “As I learn more, so will you.”
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