North Carolina launches $290 million recovery plan after Hurricane Helene

Two years after Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding and loss of life in western North Carolina, recovery efforts are moving forward through significant funding and community initiatives. The storm, which struck in September 2024, resulted in over 100 deaths and caused extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests.

To address ecological damage, the USDA Forest Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have entered a ten-year, $290 million Good Neighbor Agreement. This funding will support the newly formed Helene Restoration Division, which focuses on soil stabilization, aquatic and terrestrial species recovery, and habitat restoration to mitigate future disaster risks.

In the tourism sector, leaders in Asheville are encouraging fall visits to bolster the local economy. While Buncombe County saw approximately $2.6 billion in visitor spending last year, levels remain below pre-storm figures. Tourism is a vital economic driver for the region, accounting for roughly 20% of the county's GDP and supporting one in seven local jobs.