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Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina hard, causing more than $50 billion in damage. But the region is rebounding, welcoming visitors and new businesses thanks to equal parts resilience, generosity and community spirit.
It has been 10 months since Hurricane Helene roared north from the Gulf, dropping upward of 31 inches of rain on western North Carolina. That pounding washed away mountain slopes, roads, businesses and homes, causing more than $50 billion in damage. And while a haze of uncertainty remains over the 18-county region, whose natural beauty is internationally known, it’s clear that its residents’ resiliency will see it to better times.
Recovery efforts began as soon as the clouds parted, and they continue as a collaborative process. “While our region has much healing to do, the experience has only strengthened our spirit and generosity,” says Clark Duncan, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce senior vice president of economic development. “I’ve been especially moved by the leadership of our business community, the quiet philanthropy, and extraordinary investments made in caring for employees and our most impacted neighbors. Whether you are a resident, a visitor or a business investing in the region, the comeback is tangible, and the future is bright.”…