Katie Daly
Updated on: October 16, 2024 6:59 pm GMT
As the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene settles in, the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, faces a challenging recovery. The 8,000-acre estate, known for its beautiful grounds and 1.4 million annual visitors, suffered substantial damage due to flooding and high winds.
Extent of Damage
The Biltmore Estate issued a statement detailing the storm’s impact. They noted that the Biltmore House, America’s largest privately owned mansion, and its winery and hotels experienced minimal or no damage. However, low-lying areas, including the entrance and farm, saw significant flooding and building damage. Unfortunately, a few animals were lost in the storm, but most have been accounted for.
Continued Assessment
“We are still assessing impacts to the estate from Tropical Storm Helene, and that will take some time,” a Biltmore spokesperson said. Crews are already working diligently to clear debris and repair the estate. Despite the efforts, the estate plans to remain closed to guests until at least October 15.
Community Recovery Efforts
Buncombe County, where the Biltmore is located, has been specifically hard-hit. Reports indicate that at least 72 victims have died, and around 78,000 homes and businesses are still without power a week after the storm. Many residents are grappling with the loss of communication, making recovery even more challenging.
- Over 105,000 homes in Western North Carolina could face long-term power outages.
- A mobile power substation weighing 200,000 pounds is being brought in to help restore electricity.
- Regional power provider, Duke Energy, expects repairs to original substations to take three to four months.
Efforts to Restore Power
The mobile substation is projected to be operational by Sunday. Duke Energy is working on establishing new underground wiring to ensure safety during future storms. Meanwhile, the power company plans to rebuild the damaged substation on higher ground to reduce the chances of flooding.
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Community Voices
As residents in nearby areas confront their own losses, some are taking matters into their hands. Susan Allen Wroblewski, a local resident, shared her worries about the destruction. “Where do we go? It’s been stressful not having power and not being able to communicate and get in touch with friends,” she stated. With power outages and blocked roads, many community members are banding together to help each other recover.
The Road Ahead
The recovery process for both the Biltmore Estate and surrounding communities will be long. Many residents are still assessing their losses, while crews work to restore essential services. The emotional toll is high, but there is a shared commitment to rebuilding and moving forward.
Looking to the Future
As the Biltmore Estate undergoes recovery, it serves as a symbol of resilience in the face of natural disasters. Visitors who plan to come in the fall should stay updated with the Biltmore’s website for opening information.
Right now, the most important thing is to help each other in our community. Local leaders remind us that we need to take care of one another during these tough times. The road to getting back on our feet might have some bumps, but by working together, we can bring back hope and rebuild what we’ve lost.
