BOONE, N.C. — Officials from Watauga County, the Town of Boone and Appalachian State University came together Tuesday afternoon to provide updates on cleanup efforts across the area in the wake of Helene.
Watauga County Director of Emergency Management Will Holt didn’t mince words about the levels of destruction the area saw as a result of the storm. Since late last week, widespread flooding has caused devastation throughout the region.
“Nothing can capture the nature of destruction as mother nature took back her mountains, leaving scars where houses and roads once stood,” he said.
Over 200 roads across Watauga county remain closed because of damage from the storm. Some, though, simply don’t exist anymore. According to ReadyNC.gov, over 12,000 people remained without power in Watauga County as of 4 p.m. Tuesday.
Holt said the rebuilding effort in the county will be a “years-long process.” He also encouraged people to stay out of Watauga County unless they have been specifically called in to help.
Boone saw unprecedented levels of flooding from Helene. Mayor Tim Futrelle was emotional as he addressed members of the media Tuesday.
“Some of the things I’ve seen and heard the past five days I wouldn’t wish on anyone,” he said. “We can’t really see it right now, but we will come back stronger. I promise you that.”
The Town of Boone lifted its Boil Water Advisory on Monday. Water is safe for a majority of the town, but there are still some smaller areas who still need it and other vital resources.
Boone still has a curfew in place, but it has adjusted the hours to 11 pm-7 am. Futrelle said while it will take a while for the town to recover, he has been amazed at the outpouring of support from people across North Carolina the past several days.
"The last five days have been heartbreaking," he said. "But the last few days have been heartwarming."
Speaking on behalf of Appalachian State University, interim Chancellor Heather Norris said some academic buildings on campus suffered some level of water damage from the storm. These include Walker Hall, the Rankin Science Building, Varsity Gym and the Holmes Convocation Center.
Classes have been cancelled since Thursday, but Norris didn't give an update on when they might resume. Residence halls remain open on campus, and she said the Central Dining Hall has served 40,000 free meals since Friday.
Norris said there is a shelter for affected individuals inside the Holmes Convocation Center.
If you have been affected by Helene, here's a list of helpful resources.
Looking for ways to support residents of western North Carolina affected by Helene? We've compiled a list of reputable organizations who are already delivering aid, and you can find it here.
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