Updates Last updated or reviewed on October 7, 2024 The information below is the same as our Helene news page, which is begin regularly updated. Find recovery resources here. Updates by local radio Public officials are holding news briefings each day at 11 a.m. The briefings are streamed live on the Buncombe County Facebook Page and broadcasted on Blue Ridge Public Radio 88.1 FM. You can also listen on the iHeart radio stations including 99.9, 104.3, 105.1, 105.9, 96.5, 98.1, 105.5 and 97.3 (Spanish) and 570 AM. 10/8 at 12 p.m. Water Distribution: Drinking and Toilet Flushing Food and water distribution locations in Asheville continue to provide bulk toilet flushing water in addition to drinking water. Drinking water is provided in bottles. The public will need to bring their own containers for flushing water. City of Asheville food and water distribution site locations, open 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.: Pack Square Park, 70 Court Plaza Asheville Middle School, 211 S. French Broad Ave Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd Lucy Herring Elementary, 98 Sulphur Springs Rd Oakley Elementary School, 753 Fairview Rd These sites also have printed and posted daily updates of important information and resources. Trash Collection Resumes Trash pickup resumed Monday, starting with Monday and Tuesday regular routes. Due to roadway challenges, crews were unable to complete all planned trash routes and will pick up where they left off today (Oct. 8). Updates for remaining routes will be provided as information is available. The Buncombe County Transfer Station (190 Hominy Creek Rd) will be open starting Wednesday Oct. 9 for residential bagged trash drop-off only. Fees will be waived temporarily. Commercial or large vehicles are not permitted at this time. Hours are 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday. City of Asheville Sanitation customers can download the AVL Collects app to receive notifications about trash and recycling pickup in your area. (This does not apply to WastePro customers; only customers with City carts.) There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents should use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. Do not put limbs, yard debris, construction debris, carpet, concrete, or other bulky or hazardous items in your trash cart. These materials will be collected separately by a contractor at a later date. Assistance for Small Businesses The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened an assistance center at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. The center is focusing on providing disaster relief in the form of low interest loans for businesses, nonprofits, homeowners and renters impacted by the storm. Visit sba.gov for more information or visit SBA representatives in person at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce (36 Montford Ave). Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The City of Asheville worked with the SBA to create an informational video with further details. FEMA Disaster Assistance (DSA) Team locations for Tuesday, October 8, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. DSA teams will be able to register survivors for FEMA assistance. Alternatively download the FEMA app or call toll free 800-621-3362. The below sites may change daily, in coordination with local Emergency Management, in order to accommodate the areas of greatest need. Black Mountain, 550 Hwy 9 AB Tech Shelter, 16 Fernihurst Dr between parking center and parking deck Park Square Park, 80 Court Plaza Community of Emma (Spanish Speaking), 528 Emma St New Bridge Baptist Church, 199 Elkwood Ave Laundry Use Trailer, Basilica of St. Lawrence, 97 Haywood St Walmart, 60 Airport Rd ART Bus Service ART is now operating a modified schedule on select routes where road conditions have improved. These routes will run on a modified Sunday schedule, with all outbound trips ending at 5 p.m. ART services will be free of charge until further notice. The modified routes will have flag stop service, allowing passengers to signal the driver and board at their preferred location along the route instead of at designated stops. ART Paratransit services are resuming where possible. Paratransit customers should call (828) 250-6750 to schedule transportation. Find more information on the routes in operation. Donations Three donation sites have been established for drop off of small donations from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Harrah’s Cherokee Center – 68 Haywood St West Asheville – 1298 Patton Ave Arden Presbyterian Church – 2215 Hendersonville Rd The most impactful way to support the recovery effort at this time is monetary donations to recognized disaster relief organizations. Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery. Water Service Restoration The beginning of water restoration is contingent on two important things happening: completion of North Fork’s 36-inch bypass line rebuild, which we hope to accomplish later this week. the ability to put water into the system. Pushing the sediment-filled water through our filters would damage them beyond repair, and set back the process. The City is working with the Environmental Protection Agency on turbidity-reducing measures. Once water is able to leave the North Fork, city crews will have to fill tanks, repair pipe leaks, and remove air locks from the distribution system. Mills River treatment plant, which serves South Asheville, is operating at normal output. While most of the service area has been pressurized, there are still pockets that have not received water service. Water Resources maintenance staff is working to bring water to the entire service area as quickly as possible. A boil water advisory remains in effect for those whose water has returned. We are also asking customers with water service to conserve it as much as possible. Water restoration will occur slowly and incrementally. As we have said from the beginning, full operation of the system could potentially be weeks away. Those who have water are asked to conserve. Board and Commission meetings are suspended until further notice. 10/7 at 2 p.m. The United States Small Business Association has opened a small business assistance center at the Chamber of Commerce. The center is focusing on providing disaster relief in the form of low interest loans for businesses, nonprofits, homeowners and renters impacted by the storm. Visit sba.gov for more information or visit SBA representatives in person at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce (36 Montford Ave). Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. 10/6 at 2 p.m. Food and water distribution locations in Asheville now have non potable water which can be used for flushing toilets. This is in addition to drinking and cooking water. The public will need to bring their own containers for non potable water. City of Asheville food and water distribution site locations: Pack Square Park, 70 Court Plaza Asheville Middle School, 211 S. French Broad Ave Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd Lucy Herring Elementary, 98 Sulphur Springs Rd Oakley Elementary School, 753 Fairview Rd These sites also have printed and posted daily updates of important information and resources. Community members are encouraged to take pictures of the daily information sheets and/or take copies to share with their neighbors. Road Closure in Biltmore Village Hendersonville Road/Biltmore Avenue will be closed from All Souls Crescent to Meadow Road through October 13, 2024 between the hours of 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. All lanes will be closed to all vehicular traffic except for emergency vehicles. Detours will be in place to route traffic to the McDowell Street bridge. This closure is required in order to maintain safety while cleanup activities take place in the Biltmore Village area. FEMA Disaster Assistance (DSA) Team locations for Sunday, October 6 DSA teams will be able to register survivors for FEMA assistance. Alternatively, the public can download the FEMA app or call the toll free number: 800-621-3362. Black Mountain, 550 Hwy 9 – 9 a.m. AB Tech Shelter, 16 Fernihurst Dr – 9 a.m. Park Square Park, 80 Court Plaza – 9 a.m. Community of Emma (Spanish Speaking), FEMA is canvassing – 9 a.m. New Bridge Baptist Church, 199 Elkwood Ave – 9 a.m. Laundry Use Trailer, Basilica of St, Lawrence, 97 Haywood Street – noon Walmart, 60 Airport Road, Arden – noon These sites may change daily, in coordination with local Emergency Management, in order to accommodate the areas of greatest need. Donations Cash is the best donation at this time. Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery. When people support voluntary organizations with financial contributions, it helps ensure a steady flow of important services to the people in need after a disaster Hazardous Materials Reporting Let’s work together to keep the environment safe. If you come across hazardous materials in your area following the flooding from Hurricane Helene, please report them immediately by emailing ncdwmspills@deq.nc.gov. Provide pertinent information including location, description of item and pictures. If possible, take clear photos of the items and their surroundings to aid in proper identification and removal. Water Utility Service Tropical Storm Helene severely damaged the production and distribution system of the City of Asheville’s water system. Materials, equipment and personnel are on the ground at all three water treatment plants. At North Fork, contractors are focusing on rebuilding the 36-inch bypass line that Helene destroyed. That line serves 80 percent of Asheville water customers, most of whom are north of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Complications from debris clogging what remains of the bypass line and then rainfall in the watershed after Helene arose on Friday and Saturday. While progress slowed, work continued. On Sunday morning, contractors were able to install new sections of the bypass line. These complications are an illustration of the impossibility of offering an accurate timeline for service restoration. As repairs progress, water service will return to some areas before others, based solely on the level of damage to the system. When water service does return, a boil water advisory will be in effect. 10/5 at 6:30 p.m. Curbside collection of regular bagged household waste starting Monday, October 7 On Monday, October 7, City of Asheville Sanitation will have crews out servicing both regular Monday and Tuesday trash customers. If your regular pick up day is Monday or Tuesday, set your carts out by 7 a.m. on Monday for collection. (City of Asheville Sanitation customer’s carts will have a City logo on them; if your cart does not have a City logo on it, you are a County customer, not a City customer). Do not put limbs, yard debris, construction debris, carpet, concrete, or other bulky or hazardous items in your trash cart. These materials will be collected separately by a contractor. See Debris Collection Information below for details. You may use both your recycling cart & trash cart for trash at this time. Any carts placed at the curb this week will be processed as trash. You may see both City trash trucks and Curbie Recycling trucks out collecting trash, but all material will be landfilled at this time. Collection of recyclables will resume in the near future. Place carts where staff can access them to roll to their trucks for disposal. Trucks will only drive on roads that are safely accessible. Due to numerous factors, we may or may not get to everyone, even on accessible roads. We will communicate information out at the end of the day, Monday, regarding progress and service areas for Tuesday. DEBRIS COLLECTION INFORMATION Debris collection is estimated to begin mid-October. Debris should be SEPARATED at the curb according to these guidelines. Ensure staff can still access your trash/recycling carts. Do not block the roadway and ensure access for large trucks & emergency vehicles. To the greatest extent possible, please do not set debris to the curb until we have collected the first round of residential trash/recycling carts unless you have sufficient space for proper separation. DebrisTech, a contracted company with the City of Asheville and Buncombe County, is hiring Hurricane Debris Collection Monitors to assist in monitoring the debris clean up process. These positions will be filled immediately. No prior experience needed and the ability to earn up to $1,000 per week. More information regarding these positions can be found here. 10/4 at 4:13 p.m. Tropical Storm Helene Recovery Update, October 3, 4:30 p.m. Donation drop-off site The City of Asheville is opening a new donation drop-off site at Harrah’s Cherokee Center for individuals and groups wanting to help during this crisis. The site can accept small donations including water, nonperishable food, personal care items, infant care, pet food supplies, disposable plates and utensils, clothing and cleaning supplies. However, it cannot accept anything requiring refrigeration or flammable liquids. Donation Drop-off Site: Harrah’s Cherokee Center 87 Haywood Street, at the front door Operation Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., 7 days a week Curbside collection of household waste will resume in targeted areas on Monday, October 7. Routes are being determined based on road accessibility and will be shared when available. Download the AVL Collects app in the Apple Store or Google Play store to receive notifications about trash and recycling pickup in your area. There will be no recycling pick up until the recycling plant is operational. Residents should use both recycling and trash carts for household waste. All waste will be collected as trash at this time by both City of Asheville and Curbie vehicles. The following materials cannot be collected at this time: mud, construction debris, concrete, and other bulky or hazardous items. Debris collection is estimated to start in mid October. 10/3 10:49 a.m. City of Asheville Opens New Donation Drop-off Site The City of Asheville, partnering with United Way, has opened a new donation drop-off site for individuals and groups wanting to help during this crisis. The site can accept small donations, including water, nonperishable food, personal care items, infant care, pet food supplies, disposable plates and utensils, clothing, and cleaning supplies, including buckets. However, it cannot accept anything requiring refrigeration or flammable liquids. Donation Drop-off Site: Harrah’s Cherokee Center 87 Haywood Street, at the front door Hours and Days of Operation: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., seven days a week Sign up for AVL Alerts, visit the City of Asheville website at www.ashevillenc.gov and follow on Facebook or X at @AshevilleFD. 10/2 2:37 p.m. Tropical Storm Helene Recovery Update, October 2, 3 p.m. Water + Food Distribution Food in the form of Meals Ready to Eat (MRE) and bottled water are available at two distribution sites beginning today. Two MRE packages per adult, and one per child will be allowed per day. Cases of bottled water are available, one case per family per day. Distribution will last until 7 p.m. or until supplies run out. Asheville Middle School, 211 S. French Broad Avenue, Asheville Lindwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Road, Asheville Other Water Distribution sites – open until 7pm, or supplies run out Bulk water at Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) – Some containers are available but please bring your own if possible. 10/2 7:30 a.m. Free ice is currently available at the Home Depot (795 Fairview Road) until supplies run out. Ice is available in 7lb bags. This was an unexpected large donation that the City is unable to store. 10/1 2 p.m. Tropical Storm Helene Recovery Update, October 1, 2 p.m. Improving Cell Phone Service An additional temporary Verizon tower will be placed at Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Road, Asheville. This tower will offer limited cellular reception within approximately 200 yards of where it is parked. Resource map will be available A GIS-based map (geographic information systems) will be available on Wednesday that will cumulatively show the available locations for food and water distribution, road closures, shelters and cell towers. Follow the updates here: ashevillenc.gov/helene Volunteering & Donations We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our community! Thanks to your donations and supplies, we are able to continue supporting those in need and making a positive impact. Every contribution, big or small, helps us go further together. Due to the overwhelming donations we are at capacity and unable to continue to take the donations, we are asking the public to reach out to your local community groups and faith organizations to donate to. Your kindness and support truly make a difference. Water Distribution Beginning at 12:00 p.m. today the City of Asheville added an additional water distribution location at Asheville Middle School (211 S. French Broad Ave, Asheville, NC 28801). The site will be open until dark or when the supply runs out. Cases of bottled water will be available for pick up. This location is designed for drive thru pick up in the first bus loop. One case per family is allowed per day. Water distribution continues in Pack Square Park. Drinking water will be distributed from Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) beginning at 9 a.m. until dark or when the supply runs out. Each person will be provided 2 gallons of water per person, with a maximum of 5 gallons per family. Containers are available, but please bring your own. Safety First In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, we understand that times are tough, but looting is never the answer. We urge everyone to stay calm and patient as resources are on the way to assist those in need. Our officers are out ensuring safety and security across the city. We’re working closely with local and state partners to distribute supplies and restore order. If you see something, please say something. Need to Report a Missing Person or Request a Welfare Check in the City of Asheville? In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, we understand that communication may be challenging due to limited cell phone service. To ensure the safety of our community members, please follow these steps if you’re concerned about someone’s well-being: Fill out the form here: https://forms.gle/ovyjJ9zfdUcJVHDw6 Provide as much detail as possible, including: Full name of the missing person Report Time Last known location & time Who were they seen by/with Was this a group of people Contact information for reporting party Any specific concerns or relevant information For urgent situations, please call 911 or our non-emergency line at 828-252-1110. Asheville Police Department officers are working with law enforcement agencies to conduct welfare checks and address missing person reports. We remain fully dedicated to supporting you through this challenging time. Remember: Due to limited cell service, using the online form can help us respond more efficiently. 10/1/11:46 a.m. City of Asheville begins water distribution at Asheville Middle School; Continues in Pack Square Park Beginning at 12:00 p. m. today the City of Asheville is adding an additional water distribution location at Asheville Middle School (211 S. French Broad Ave, Asheville, NC 28801). The site will be open until dark or when the supply runs out. Cases of bottled water will be available for pick up. This location is designed for drive thru pick up in the first bus loop. One case per family is allowed per day. Water distribution continues in Pack Square Park. Drinking water will be distributed from Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) beginning at 9 a.m. until dark or when the supply runs out. Each person will be provided 2 gallons of water per person, with a maximum of 5 gallons per family. YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN CONTAINER, NONE WILL BE PROVIDED. For the safety of everyone involved, traffic will be directed around the park and the distribution site will be walk-up only. Assistance will be available for those who cannot carry their water back to their cars. The community is encouraged to park in nearby parking decks and surface lots. Please do not park in roadways in order to avoid impeding on emergency response. 10/1 at 7:30 a.m. City of Asheville continues water distribution at Pack Square Park Drinking water will be distributed today at Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) beginning at 9 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. or when the supply runs out. Each person will be provided 2 gallons of water per person, with a maximum of 5 gallons per family. EACH PERSON MUST BRING THEIR OWN CONTAINER, NONE WILL BE PROVIDED. For the safety of everyone involved, traffic will be directed around the park and the distribution site will be walk-up only. Assistance will be available for those who cannot carry their water back to their cars. The community is encouraged to park in nearby parking decks and surface lots. Please do not park in roadways in order to avoid impeding on emergency response. 𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 6:20 p.m.: Water distribution at Pack Square is closed for the day (Monday 9/30) and will reopen tomorrow (Tuesday 10/1) at 9 a.m. 9/30 at 1 p.m. Food and Water Distribution The City has ordered food and water supplies. We hope to receive these supplies in the next day or two. Until then, please be conservative and help your neighbors if possible. Pack Square Park Water Distribution Drinking water will be distributed from Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) beginning at 1 p.m. until dark or when the supply runs out. Each person will be provided 2 gallons of water per person, with a maximum of 5 gallons per family. EACH PERSON MUST BRING THEIR OWN CONTAINER, NONE WILL BE PROVIDED. For the safety of everyone involved, traffic will be directed around the park and the distribution site will be walk-up only. Assistance will be available for those who cannot carry their water back to their cars. The community is encouraged to park in nearby parking decks and surface lots. Please do not park in roadways in order to avoid impeding on emergency response. Cellular Service A temporary Verizon cellular satellite trailer is located at the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Street. This tower will offer an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. Additionally, T-mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks in Asheville. These SatCOLTs provide cellular voice and data, along with Wi-Fi and charging stations. Trucks are located at Asheville Middle School at 211 S French Broad Ave, and Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center at 285 Livingston St. City offices and parks closed City of Asheville offices and parks will be closed until further notice. Trash and Recycling service suspended There will be no trash and recycling service in the City of Asheville until further notice. ART Bus service suspended Bus service remains suspended while buses are involved in relief efforts. 9/29 at 8:32 p.m. Information about the dam at Bee Tree The City of Asheville would like to share information with the public about the dam at Bee Tree. The dam at Bee Tree is functioning as it was engineered. Water is coming through the spillway as is the appropriate function. Water resources completed multiple fly over visual inspections today for situational awareness. Water Resources staff continue to work around the clock to respond to the emergency. 9/29 at 6:32 p.m. Cellular Service In light of minimal ability for cellular service, the City of Asheville is partnering with Verizon to deliver a temporary cellular satellite trailer to the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Street. This tower will offer an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. The tower is operational as of late Sunday afternoon, September 29. Additionally, T-mobile is bringing SatCOLT (satellite cell on light trucks) to Asheville. These SatCOLTs provide cellular voice and data, along with Wi-Fi (allowing people to use Wi-Fi calling no matter their carrier). More information here: https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/hurricane-helene City offices closed City of Asheville offices will be closed on Monday, September 30. Trash and Recycling Service There will be no trash and recycling service in the City of Asheville on Monday, September 30. Traffic Safety Public safety officials are discouraging travel. In the event that you must be on the road, please treat inactive traffic lights as four-way stops. 9/29 at 3:32 p.m Cellular satellite trailer will provide limited service downtown In light of minimal ability for cellular service, the City of Asheville is partnering with Verizon to deliver a temporary cellular satellite trailer to the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Place. This tower will offer an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. The tower will be operational late Sunday afternoon, September 29. 9/29 at 11:15 a.m. Please conserve fuel and stay off roads. This will allow emergency response vehicles the quickest access to do their jobs. Water and food have been ordered and will be coming into the area. Distribution sites will be identified when supplies are on site. Tropical Storm Helene severely damaged the production and distribution system of the City of Asheville’s water system. Extensive repairs are required to treatment facilities, underground and aboveground water pipes, and to roads that have washed away which are preventing water personnel from accessing parts of the system. Although providing a precise timeline is impossible, it is important to note that restoring service to the full system could potentially take weeks. A curfew is still in effect from 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. within the Asheville City Limits. 9/28 at 9:14 a.m. Water Service update, Transit Service suspended The water consumers of City of Asheville Water Resources Department, in Buncombe County are experiencing periods of low pressure and outages in the distribution system due to weather conditions generated by Tropical Storm Helene. Periods of low or no pressure in the distribution system increases the potential for back siphonage and introduction of bacteria into the water system. There is the potential for temporary loss of water service. Therefore, when water service is restored consumers who have electric power are advised to boil all water used for human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above. Vigorous boiling for one (1) minute should kill any disease-causing organisms that may be present in the water. This advisory remains in effect until further written notification is issued. Water customers who currently have water are encouraged to fill bathtubs in preparedness for loss of water. ART System Alert Update: 9/28/24 UPDATE: In order to best support the current state of emergency ART services are suspended until further notice. The service continues to face local power outages, road conditions, and staffing shortages. Instead of regular route services, ART buses have been redirected to support relief efforts. ART was able to successfully transport over 578 individuals in need to shelters. ART will communicate a roll-out plan to resume service when more information is available. We appreciate your patience and understanding and apologize for any inconvenience. Stay up to date on any service changes that may affect your travel plans by checking the Service Alerts page. To get notices via text or email about changes, sign up for iRide email alerts, or text “NextART” to 41411. 9/27 at 9:11 p.m. Update on local restoration efforts Emergency crews are out navigating hazardous conditions as they assess damage in impacted communities. Due to the severity of destruction experienced and ongoing flooding challenges we expect an extended restoration effort. Water Utility Weather conditions have resulted in at least one significant water line break. As a result, customers in parts of the system are experiencing reduced or no water pressure. Because large portions of the city are still underwater and many roads remain closed, Water Resources’ ability to assess the system is extremely limited. As a result you may experience low pressure or no water. If you have water, but do not have the ability to boil it because of lack of electricity, please rely on bottled water for consumption. While crews have been able to travel in areas that are passable, the problem area, or areas, still have not been identified. Like other utilities affected by Helene, fully restoring service to the water system will take some time and we greatly appreciate your patience while we dedicate every available resource to the effort. Community Partners The City of Asheville also encourages community members to monitor other government or service provider websites and social media for their latest information as well. Buncombe County has established a NON-Emergency line for community reports of things such as downed trees and debris: 828-250-6650. Please call 9-1-1 for life threatening situations including down power lines. National Weather Service NCDOT Twitter: NCDOT_Asheville for local information or @NCDOT for regional/ statewide information Duke Energy Code Purple will be active Thursday and Friday. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram 9/27 at 5:56 p.m. Parks Update All parks and community centers will remain closed through Sunday, September 29. 9/27 at 5:50 p.m. Curfew in effect A curfew will be in effect within the city limits of Asheville from 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. beginning tonight, Friday, September 27. The curfew is to ensure the public’s safety and will be in effect until further notice. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to keep our community safe. 9/27 at 2:24 p.m. City of Asheville Emergency Responders continue critical emergency response City of Asheville emergency responders and staff from each department continue life saving efforts in response to Tropical Storm Helene. Crews continue to work throughout the community around the clock, responding to calls for assistance including swift water rescues, evacuations, transportation to shelters, and downed trees on powerlines, houses and roads. Asheville Fire Department has upscaled their operations with up to 200 firefighters filling emergency response roles. The FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the North Carolina National Guard are in town to assist our rescue efforts. A FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team is in Asheville with 82 personnel and 19 vehicles including buses, tractor trailers, box trucks, tow vehicles and rescue boats. The National Guard team is assisting efforts by providing a team of 8 personnel and high profile vehicles that can navigate through flooded waters. Even though it may appear that the storm has passed, we want the community to understand that the devastating after effects of Helene including rising rivers, downed powerlines and power outages, flooded roads, and damaged homes will affect our community for days to come. The City of Asheville is dedicated to using all resources possible to continue to serve our community, businesses and visitors. For non-emergency situations, please call 828-250-6650. For life threatening situations, always call 911. 9/27 at 12:33 p.m. Boil Water Advisory The water consumers of City of Asheville Water Resources Department, in Buncombe County are experiencing periods of low pressure and outages in the distribution system due to weather conditions generated by Tropical Storm Helene. Periods of low or no pressure in the distribution system increases the potential for back siphonage and introduction of bacteria into the water system. There is the potential for temporary loss of water service. All customers are currently advised to boil water (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those customers without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above. Vigorous boiling for one (1) minute should kill any disease-causing organisms that may be present in the water. Water customers are strongly urged to conserve water whenever possible. This advisory remains in effect until further written notification is issued. 9/27 at 11:14 a.m. ART Service Update Due to changing weather conditions and flooding, regular ART service will not resume today, 9/27. We apologize for any inconvenience. Tomorrow, 9/28: Dependent on road conditions, service is scheduled to resume at 10:00 AM. Staff will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if there are any changes. Stay up to date on any service changes that may affect your travel plans by checking the Service Alerts page. To get notices via text or email about changes, sign up for iRide email alerts, or text “NextART” to 41411. 9/27 at 10 a.m. ART Service to resume ART Services are scheduled to resume at 2:00 PM today, 9/27. Service levels will be dependent on weather and road conditions. We will provide updates if the circumstances change. 9/27 at 7:12 a.m. City Offices closed on September 27 All City of Asheville offices will be closed on Friday, September 27. Online services including water bill pay and permit applications remain available. Emergency services and storm response remain operational. Reminder – ART Transit services will begin at 2 p.m. today. 9/27 at 6:22 a.m. Mandatory evacuation of the Swannanoa River Valley area is in place Due to the catastrophic rain in the area, the North Fork Reservoir auxiliary spillway has been activated. The dam is performing as designed, and the volume of water flowing downstream will increase as the storm intensifies. Due to the high risk, a MANDATORY EVACUATION of the Swannanoa River Valley area is in place. All residents within the designated area downstream of the reservoir are required to move to higher ground. If you need assistance to evacuate, please call 911. Shelter is available at Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville (87 Haywood St, Asheville, NC 28801) Explore Asheville has worked with local hotels to make rooms available for residents who are seeking shelter from the storm. Those rates are available here. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram Flash Flood Warning Emergency alert The National Weather Service has turned a FLASH FLOOD WARNING into effect for the Asheville area until 8:15 a.m. This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding or under evacuation order. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram 9/26 at 9:45 p.m. See below update from Buncombe County. Anyone within the French Broad and Swannanoa River Valleys and tributaries should self evacuate before anticipated crests. From Buncombe County: As the local state of emergency continues, resources are available to help residents looking to evacuate. It’s anticipated that 15,000 individual residences may be impacted. To see if your residence falls in the floodplain, click here. Please note that this tool is not a confirmation that a property will not flood, it simply shows that it is not historically prone to flooding. Shelters are available and open now at First Baptist Church in Swannanoa and Trinity Baptist in West Asheville. Buncombe County is working with Henderson County and other partners to establish larger shelters and also shelters that can help community members with medical devices like home ventilators and other specialized equipment. Explore Asheville has worked with local hotels to make rooms available for residents who are seeking shelter from the storm. Those rates are available here. Residents, businesses, visitors, and employees in Fletcher and Biltmore Village near the rivers should self-evacuate before anticipated crests overnight Friday and into Saturday morning. Code Purple sheltering is available through ABCCM for unhoused residents, and transportation on ART is free to Code Purple shelters. Please refer to these useful numbers for roads and utilities. For non-emergency support, call 828-250-6650. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram 9/26 at 8:30 p.m. ART SERVICE UPDATE For tomorrow, 9/27 – Due to potentially dangerous and unknown weather conditions, ART services will begin at 2:00 PM. This delay is also to ensure that all routes are clear and there are sufficient drivers available for operations. We will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates if circumstances change. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram 9/26 at 2:30 p.m. Asheville Rapid Transit ART Services continues to operate. Detours remain in place for some routes due to road closures. Service on the WE1 route has returned to regular service at this time. At noon today route S6 began a detour near MAHEC due to campus and access gates are closures. Inbound passengers are advised to use stop 750, Hendersonville Rd at Irwin St, for northbound service. Outbound passengers are advised to use stop 694, Hendersonville Rd at Irwin St, for southbound service. Free Transit is available to the open Code Purple shelter serving the homeless during the storm: ABBCCM’s Vet’s Restoration Quarters, and ABBCCM’s Transformation Village. Stay up to date on any service changes that may affect your travel plans by checking the Service Alerts page. To get notices via text or email about changes, sign up for iRide email alerts, or text “NextART” to 41411. It is important to know, if it is determined the roads are becoming unsafe for travel, we anticipate issuing an alert four hours before discontinuing service unless deteriorting conditions dictate otherwise . Water Department Tips With the possibility of an extended boil water advisory or water outage due to severe weather from a tropical storm, City of Asheville Water Resources Department customers should include in their preparations these steps: Keep several gallon jugs of potable water for drinking, cooking, preparing bottles, brushing teeth and sponge baths. Keep enough for the entire family to have water for 24 to 72 hours. A good rule of thumb is to have one gallon of water for each person or pet in the household for each day you are out of water service. Keep several gallons of non-potable water for flushing toilets. It is advised to remember that toilets do not have to be flushed every time they are used to help conserve your water supply. The easiest ways to flush your toilet is to fill the tank with water and then flush as normal or pour water directly into the bowl until the pressure forces it to flush. Under any circumstances (emergency or non emergency) it is best to not flush any foreign objects other than toilet paper. Sanitary products such as wipes and feminine products should be placed in the trash. If disposed of in the toilet, it will take more water to flush the toilet and significantly increase the likelihood of clogged plumbing. During an extended outage in the water system, emergency responders will work to ensure potable water is available to customers. However, having an emergency preparedness plan will help you and your family be ready for an unexpected event. If your area is going to be affected by no water service or low water pressure during a tropical storm, an AVL Alert is the fastest and most direct way to be notified. If you are not signed up to receive AVL Alerts, please click here to do so. 9/26 at 11:00 a.m. Trash, Recycling, and Brush Collection Information Trash and recycling collection are currently running today. There may be delays and/or no collection in areas that are inaccessible. Trash or recycling that is missed Thursday will be collected on Monday. Please download the free AVLcollects app or sign up on our website for alerts to stay up to date on sanitation service delays or cancellations. If trash or recycling collections are suspended at some point today, we will send out an alert via AVL Collects and other City messaging channels. Brush collection has been temporarily suspended. Brush crews will be assisting with emergency response and debris removal. Normal collections will resume as the situation allows. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram AVL Alerts Stormwater staff will be using AVL Alerts to alert community members of issues in their more immediate area. So please make sure to sign up for AVL Alerts Traffic / Road Closures We are advising community members to monitor the WAZE app for real time closure and hazard information. Additionally Drive NC.gov Community Partners The City of Asheville also encourages community members to monitor other government or service provider websites and social media for their latest information as well. The County has established a NON-Emergency line for community reports : 828-250-6650. This for things like downed trees, debris, power line concerns. Please call 9-1-1 for life threatening situations National Weather Service NCDOT Twitter: NCDOT_Asheville for local information or @NCDOT for regional/ statewide information Duke Energy Code Purple will be active Thursday and Friday. 9/26 at 9:00 a.m. Additional Asheville Rapid Transit (ART) impacts Detours are in place for WE-1 bus route: Due to a road closure at Swannanoa River Rd & Azalea Rd, detours are in place between Swannanoa River Rd at Tunnel Rd and Swannanoa River Rd at Governors View Rd. In the inbound direction, bus stops 436, 433, 434, 799, 432, 431, 471, 430, 429 will be missed until further notice. Inbound passengers are advised to use alertnative bus stops 437 or 546 while the detour is in effect. In the outbound direction, bus stops 418, 419, 420, 421, 423, 424, 422 will be missed until further notice. Outbound passengers are advised to use alternative bus stops 416 and 425 while the detour is in effect. Events/ Facilities Impacts The WNC Nature Center will be closed Thursday and Friday. Meetings / Commissions Cancellations All City of Asheville Board and Commission meetings Thursday and Friday are canceled. Know your information sources Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville – You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram AVL Alerts Stormwater staff will be using AVL Alerts to alert community members of issues in their more immediate area. So please make sure to sign up for AVL Alerts Traffic / Road Closures We are advising community members to monitor the WAZE app for real time closure and hazard information. Additionally Drive NC.gov Community Partners The City of Asheville also encourages community members to monitor other government or service provider websites and social media for their latest information as well. The County has established a NON-Emergency line for community reports : 828-250-6650. This for things like downed trees, debris, power line concerns. Please call 9-1-1 for life threatening situations National Weather Service NCDOT Twitter: NCDOT_Asheville for local information or @NCDOT for regional/ statewide information Duke Energy Code Purple will be active Thursday and Friday. 9/25 at 8:30 p.m. Heavy rains from Helene impact Asheville Rapid Transit (ART) routes and Parks and Recreation facility openings Due to a road closure on Lodge St, detours are in place for ART Routes S1 & S5. Bus stops along Lodge St, Sweeten Creek Rd., and London Rd., will be missed until further notice. This includes: 170, 610, 611, 612, 613, 614, 615, 616, 642, 643, 644, 645, 646, 647, 648, 649, and 650 Passengers at the regular stops listed above may board inbound buses at the following bus stops: Route S1 & S5: Bus Stop 651 located on Biltmore Ave near Bryson St. Route S1: Bus Stop 641 located on White Ave near W. Chapel Rd. Route S5: Bus Stop 137 located on Fairview Rd at The District. Parks and Recreation Facilities All Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) parks, community centers, and facilities are closed on Thursday, September 26 and Friday, September 27 due to inclement weather. Previously scheduled activities, events, programs, and rentals are canceled during this time. We will continue to monitor weather conditions and announce any schedule changes as they become available. Visit this page for a list of APR locations. 9/25 at 4:10 p.m. The City of Asheville will experience heavy rainfall and strong winds beginning tomorrow as a result of Hurricane Helene. Staff from across the City are already hard at work preparing Asheville to weather the rain and wind forecasted to come our way. Asheville Fire is proactively preparing for major weather impacts by activating specialty teams to include boat teams, saw teams, team leaders, safety officers, battalion and division chiefs for the duration of the weather event. This will allow Asheville Fire to continue to provide excellent service to the community while these personnel will respond to storm related emergencies. Stormwater crews have been inspecting construction sites for on-going stormwater projects, clearing debris from flood prone areas, testing equipment in preparation of restoration efforts, and clearing storm drain grates. City of Asheville staff across strategic departments will be on call and available to respond throughout the storm. Staff are meeting to coordinate preparation and response throughout this weather event to adjust plans as needed. The National Weather Service forecasts 10 to 15 inches of rain are expected to accumulate in the Asheville area with potential for flash or localized flooding. You can follow updates at The National Weather Service website. Tips to Prepare Stay Calm. Be Prepared. Develop an emergency plan and create an emergency kit. Visit NCReady for additional information. Inform yourself about floods. Keep a supply of fresh water and non-perishable food on hand. Fuel your vehicles. Clean out storm drains near your home or business, removing any debris. Create an inventory of your personal property and its approximate value. Save receipts from expensive items. Have a battery-operated flashlight. Have a battery-operated radio, TV, or internet access that does not rely on electricity. Do not approach downed power lines. Report a down power line here. Sign up for AVL Alerts. Driving Tips: Turn Around, Don’t Drown Due to the potential of fast moving storm waters or flash flooding, the City of Asheville advises community members to use caution on the roads. If possible, travel when only necessary. If you must travel, the City will be updating on the AVL Alert system and updating maps on Waze to provide updated road information. As always, when there’s the potential of high water on the road, the phrase to keep in mind is: Turn Around, Don’t Drown Where to follow for information Asheville Fire Department During storm-related emergencies, the City of Asheville’s Fire Department is the lead agency to coordinate and manage the action plan and operations during the incident. As always, Dial 9-1-1 for emergencies. Please continue to monitor Asheville Fire Department social media for updates: Facebook Twitter City of Asheville You can also find updated information on impacts to City offered programs, activities and services by monitoring our the City of Asheville Website as well as updates on our social media accounts. Facebook Twitter Instagram AVL Alerts Stormwater staff will be using AVL Alerts to alert community members of issues in their more immediate area. So please make sure to sign up for AVL Alerts The Waze App will be a source of information on road closures and hazards. Community Partners The City of Asheville also encourages community members to monitor other government or service provider websites and social media for their latest information as well. National Weather Service NCDOT Twitter: NCDOT_Asheville for local information or @NCDOT for regional/ statewide information Duke Energy Code Purple will be active Thursday and Friday. Impacted Services or Events As our community prepares for a weekend of wind and rain, it’s important to note some scheduled services, activities and events have been or have the potential to be impacted. Parks & Recreation Parking lots are closed at all riverfront parks below beginning on Wednesday, September 25 at 5 p.m. Amboy Riverfront Park Azalea Park Azalea Dog Park Carrier Park Craven Street Bridge Boat Access Area French Broad River Park French Broad River Dog Park Jean Webb Park Pearson Bridge River Access Area Recreation Park Riverbend Park Sanitation City of Asheville waste collection will run as scheduled. If any trash or recycling is missed Thursday due to weather-related issues, it will be collected Monday. Normal brush collection routes may be delayed in order to assist with emergency operations. ART services There are no disruptions to Transit schedules at this time. Any delays or route changes will be communicated and noticed through iRide and Transit app Events The Block Party Career Fair scheduled for September 26 has been canceled. Aston Park Tennis Center and the Municipal Golf Course are open until weather dictates a closure, and will reopen as possible. Please call the clubhouses in advance to check the status. AFD Fire Prevention Kick off event scheduled at the outlets on September 28 has been canceled.
