The downtown village of Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina is slowly recovering after being hit hard by Hurricane Helene. The once-pristine river near the village was filled with trash, mud, and debris after the storm, leaving the town almost unrecognizable. Many businesses were destroyed, and residents like Gabriel Smith, 19, are working hard to fix up the village and return life to normal. However, the damage caused by the floods will take weeks, if not months, to fully recover from.
The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene was severe, with water levels reaching several feet high and buildings inundated with water. Asheville appeared flattened by the storm, with many areas looking unrecognizable. The scars of the hurricane are still evident, with bent railroad crossings and emergency vehicles navigating the city. Despite the chaos and devastation, the community has come together to support one another through this difficult time, regardless of race, color, or political affiliation.
Residents like Renee White, 59, have been deeply impacted by the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene. White expressed her sadness at seeing the damage to the river walk, arts district, and businesses, but also noted the resilience of the community in coming together to support each other. The emotional toll of the disaster is heavy, but many residents are determined to lift up their community and rebuild what was lost.
Asheville resident Kareem McDowell, 50, reflected on the initial panic that ensued after the hurricane, but noted that the community quickly turned to the question of “What do we do next?” Residents have banded together to support one another and work towards rebuilding Biltmore Village. McDowell emphasized the importance of looking out for each other during this difficult time and continuing to support one another through the recovery process.
The cleanup and recovery efforts in Biltmore Village are ongoing, with construction crews working to clear debris and restore the town to its former charm. Despite the long road ahead, residents are optimistic about the future and are committed to rebuilding their beloved village. The sense of community spirit and resilience in the face of adversity has been a driving force in the recovery process, bringing hope to those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
