Asheville Emergency Declaration Still in Effect from Helene

Asheville -- November 6, 2024: Press Release: Asheville Police: Asheville Emergency Declaration Still in Effect from Helene.

Asheville Police Urge Caution and Compliance in Areas impacted by Helene

As we navigate what will be a lengthy recovery process from the effects of Hurricane Helene on our city, the Asheville Police Department would like to remind residents and visitors alike of the dangers still present in parts of Asheville.

The catastrophic damage suffered in areas along the Swannanoa and French Broad Rivers is well known, and it will take some time to be remediated and made safe for public access. Specifically, areas along South Tunnel Road, Swannanoa River Road, Thompson Street, Biltmore Village, Lyman Street, and Riverside Drive were especially impacted. The level of damage resulted in Buncombe County issuing an emergency declaration for the entirety of the county, including the City of Asheville, and it remains in effect.

As a result, these areas have many hazards, both seen and unseen, that result in access to them only being offered to authorized persons. Those hazards include, but are not limited to roadway and sidewalk undermining and destruction, destruction of power, gas, and water lines, and hidden hazards that remain concealed by debris and sediment from flooding. In addition, recovery operations are ongoing in these areas, which often include the use of heavy equipment.

The City of Asheville has installed barricades in many of these areas, and signage is displayed warning drivers and pedestrians of closures. In addition, APD officers and other law enforcement agencies are actively patrolling these areas to restrict access. Business owners, authorized workers, and residents of the affected zones will be allowed access upon request, barring any immediate safety concerns. Please be mindful of the fact that these restrictions exist for the safety of the public and for the workers within these zones.

Please make every effort to pay attention to road closures, signage, and the instructions of law enforcement. We stand with our neighbors as we work to recover from this tragic experience, with the safety of our community being our top priority.