Helping Western North Carolina recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene has become the focus of numerous local efforts, particularly as the winter months approach. The storm, which struck on September 27, caused widespread damage across the region, displacing many residents and leaving behind significant destruction. Understandably, local organizations, like the Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina, have stepped up their outreach efforts to provide the necessary support to those affected.
For example, Eric Wynkoop is one of the many individuals who found refuge at the Hospitality House after living outdoors for some time. "This is my bed," he said, highlighting how, prior to seeking help, he had been living in a tent. Wynkoop expressed gratitude for the shelter's existence, acknowledging, "If I was outside during the storm, I would have been screwed. I thank God for this place." Heartrending stories like his are becoming more common, according to Executive Director Tina Krause, as people try to cope with the aftermath of the hurricane.
Krause noted the impact of the storm, recalling, "With the winds blowing, it was almost blizzard conditions, so we had nearly 18 more people come to us on our safety plan." The Hospitality House recently opened its emergency winter shelter to house those who were most vulnerable as temperatures began to drop. Krause emphasized the serious safety risks, stating, "Even staying in a car can be dangerous due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning."
Currently, the shelter is facing unique challenges this winter, having identified some very specific needs. Rather than standard winter items, they are requesting shelf-stable food, milk, winter boots, hand and feet warmers, propane heaters, and carbon monoxide detectors. "We feel like we’re going to have double the normal amount of people this year," Krause said, showcasing the increased demand for their services.
While they have some propane heaters at hand, the shelter is unsure how many more will be required as the brutal winter arrives. To combat the winter cold, they are using only new heaters to maintain safety standards. On top of all this, the organization is also working on Christmas celebrations. Each year, they create over 100 bags filled with new items, such as pajamas, to be handed out on Christmas morning. Last year, they faced difficulty meeting demand, falling short of the 140 they needed. "This year we want to make enough for everyone," Krause shared, expressing hopes to assist even those who may not have their needs met at home.
Meanwhile, the Swannanoa River area reflects another facet of recovery efforts following Helene's fury. The hard-hit Swannanoa Valley still bears scars from the flooding. Kristen Hicks, who surveyed the destruction, described parts of the area as filled with debris from homes and personal belongings, saying, "You’re seeing kids' toys; you’re seeing things meant to be where they are not. It's devastating.”
One month post-storm, the once-mighty Swannanoa River still carries remnants of the unforgettable tragedy, showcasing twisted trees and flattened vehicles among shattered homes. Hicks observed volunteers and residents coming together, offering food and blankets to those still struggling. “The kindness has been unshakeable,” she remarked. The transformative power of community spirit shines through amid the wreckage and loss.
Lamentably, the devastation was extensive. An infographic displayed the sheer number of wrecked homes. At one mobile home park, only one and half of the twelve homes had survived, underscoring the radical changes inflicted upon the town. "How many people are we walking past?" Hicks mused, contemplating the true extent of the human cost.
Geological experts have begun to analyze the factors contributing to Helene's destructive capacity. For example, Dr. Philip Prince, a professor of geology at Virginia Tech, explained, “Mount Mitchell received 16.7 inches of rain over two days,” exacerbated by pre-existing saturation from earlier rain events. Water surging down the mountainsides fueled the river's rapid rise during the storm, leaving devastation behind.
Following the storm, residents like John Arndt embarked on rescue missions, using kayaks to save people from perilous situations. He reportedly rescued 17 inhabitants from rooftops, recounting, “A lot of people had gone to their attics, and they were screaming; you could see their fingers sticking out of their vents.” Emergency responders and volunteers joined forces to tackle the perilous conditions caused by flooding, showcasing the tenacity of the local community.
Beyond the immediate rescue efforts, the still-lingering aftermath raised questions about the safety and urgency of rebuilding efforts. Non-profit agencies and volunteers play pivotal roles, stepping up to provide not only food and supplies but also emotional support. They remain determined to assist residents throughout the winter months as temperatures continue to drop and recovery remains challenging.
Another poignant story centers on Richard Neeb, who lost his girlfriend, Lisa Plemmons, to the floodwaters. Trapped on the roof of the KOA bathhouse, Neeb witnessed the chaos before him and desperately tried to grab onto anything to survive — but his girlfriend was swept away by the current. “The whole time, I was just thinking about her,” he said, as he struggled to make sense of his grief.
With communities actively rebuilding after the hurricane and preparing for the harsh winter, many are stressed yet hopeful. They are deeply aware of each other's struggles, ready to stand together against the challenges posed by the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The kindness and resolve shown by those from Western North Carolina demonstrate the incredible strength of community amid tragedy.
