News

Recovery turns to communities cut off by landslides

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 3, 2024

Emergency personnel turned their attention on Thursday to the Helene-ravaged communities east of the Continental Divide where landslides have isolated homes.

"A major focus of our emergency resources has shifted to the eastern part of Henderson County," Chief Communications Officer Mike Morgan said. "Your neighbors in the Edneyville, Bat Cave and Gerton along Highway 64 were hit the hardest by Hurricane Helene. NCDOT is focusing a large number of their resources to several areas which are isolated by landslides in this part of the county.  We will keep you updated on the continuing efforts to clear roads and get items to these residents who have no power, no cell service and really need our help."

Meanwhile, there's news that downed trees have littered the Ecusta Trail, which had been projected to open by the end of the year.

"The Ecusta Trail is closed. A contractor is clearing storm debris and the trail is not safe for use. The public should avoid using the Ecusta Trail until further notice," the county's Thursday night update said. No word on whether the hurricane damage would delay trail construction.

Other updates:

• Our donation drop-off site at 118 McAbee Court, Flat Rock, off Upward Road, continues to accept donations. One item we do not need currently is diapers. Non-perishable food items are a major need, especially meal-type canned goods.  We also need cleaning supplies, tarps, plasticware, paper plates, cups, flashlights and batteries.  We are not accepting perishable food or new/used clothing items at this time. This site is for donation drop offs only.  Visitwww.visithendersonvillenc.org/helene-relief for a full list of accepted items, donation information.
• Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free that is pushed to the right of way of a property. Please be patient. The county will pick up this storm debris for free as soon as possible. Residents will need to place all items along the right of way in order for pickup. Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint, etc. Please separate household garbage, construction debris, vegetative debris, large appliances, electronics and hazardous waste to expedite the removal process.
• Henderson County Resource Hub locations open Friday beginning at 9 a.m. for water distribution and other supplies are Etowah Elementary School, Rugby Middle School, East Henderson High School, North Henderson High School, Mills River Town Hall and Fletcher Town Hall.
• The call center is available for all non-medical requests for information. Please call 828-771-6670 or email Helene-info@hcem.org. For emergencies, please call 911. For more information visit www.hendersoncountync.gov and click on the Hurricane Helene Updates banner.