"There's houses that have been cut off that we have not even been able to get to, because of mudslides and the rivers," said Taylor Jones, the emergency services director for Buncombe County. Authorities declared a historic crisis in the region as the damage from Hurricane Helene creates unprecedented challenges for rescue and recovery efforts. The lack of access due to blocked roads and mudslides has hindered emergency services, underscoring the severity of the disaster in western North Carolina.
"We are in the midst of the most significant natural disaster in our community," said Avril Pinder, the county manager. With cell towers and Wi-Fi knocked out, many residents faced dire situations without access to communication or clean water. Emergency crews worked tirelessly, carrying out more than 130 water rescues by noon, yet many were still trapped due to debris, flooding, and downed power lines.
"We are answering four times an hour what our normal call volume is today," said Mr. Jones. The emergency response system has been overwhelmed, as officials manage an unprecedented increase in distress calls amid a backdrop of communication failures and blocked routes. The ongoing flooding continues to pose severe risks of mudslides, complicating rescue operations and the community's ability to stay informed.
"This just hit us like a hellstorm," said Darrell Thomas. The residents of western North Carolina are grappling with the chaotic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, where the combination of severe flooding, power outages, and damaged infrastructure has created a perilous situation. Lines of cars seeking gas reveal the call for assistance, as many struggle to cope with the lingering hazards in their communities.
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