Important Deadline Extensions, USACE Debris Updates & Helene Recovery Resources

Buncombe County -- Press Release Feb 5, 2025:Buncombe County Government: New Deadlines for Survivors Buncombe County residents

affected by Hurricane Helene now have additional time to apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA has extended the deadline to apply for disaster aid to March 8, giving survivors another opportunity to access critical support. To date, FEMA has provided more than $114 million in individual assistance to Buncombe County residents. 

Those who apply may be eligible for assistance with home repairs, security deposits, utility costs, moving and storage expenses, replacement of work tools lost in the storm, and more. Even if residents do not have immediate needs, applying ensures they are in the system should additional storm-related needs arise in the future. 

Apply online at disasterassistance.gov or visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) for in-person assistance. Two DRCs are currently open in Buncombe County, open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.: 
Fairview Public Library  
Weaverville Town Hall 
 
Additionally, the deadline to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance has been extended to March 10. Those who lost work due to the storm including business owners can apply at des.nc.gov. 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Debris Removal 

USACE has been on the ground in Buncombe County since October. Tasked by FEMA, USACE crews initially worked on critical projects including power and potable water restoration. Currently, USACE work is focused on storm debris removal. In North Carolina, contractors with USACE have removed almost 1 million cubic yards of debris and 156,000 tons of soil from public rights of way.   
A milestone was achieved this weekend with the start of waterway debris removal in Buncombe County, currently taking place in Swannanoa, Azalea Park, and Moffitt Road. Getting crews in the water took months of identifying and scoping highly impacted locations, coordinating with

FEMA for approvals and funding, and working with state and city partners. 

In addition, work is also starting this week on Private Property Debris Removal. 

“Waterway and Private Property Debris Removal are two complex tasks, there is a lot of work that is done prior to when you see it begin,” said Dave Connolly, Public Affairs Chief with Wilmington District USACE. “We are excited to be at the point when we are getting equipment out. There are a lot of people who worked very hard for months now.”  

with USACE contractor AshBritt are in the water removing all types of eligible debris including vegetative, construction and demolition, boats, cars, white goods such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, and hazardous waste.  
While this work is happening, please follow these important safety guidelines:  

Be cautious of increased truck activity on roads and avoid work areas for your safety.  
If you observe the waterways crews working feel free to observe and take pictures, but please stay back and allow the teams to work.   
These locations are active construction sites, so we ask residents to treat it as such.  

Avoid recreational activities in these waters as they are not yet safe. 

USACE will coordinate with local and state agencies to minimize disruptions to residents and businesses.  
Teams are working as quickly and safely as possible to deliver this mission and are using specialized equipment to have the lowest possible environmental impact. Work is being done with the environment in mind which is why USACE is working in coordination with all applicable regulatory agencies to ensure this work has lowest possible environmental impacts. Each piece of equipment uses biodegradable fluids, is fitted with low-pressure tires that reduce ground disturbance, and is pre-checked to ensure it is clean and free from leaks. 

New Recovery Website Launched: Buncombe Recovers 

Navigating the recovery process can be overwhelming, which is why Buncombe County has launched Buncombe Recovers—a dedicated website providing progress updates, recovery resources, debris cleanup information, rebuilding efforts, and disaster assistance programs. This platform also serves as a space for community members to share feedback on revitalization efforts.  
Visit engage.buncombecounty.org/buncomberecovers to explore resources and subscribe for updates and feedback opportunities.  

Upcoming Resources for Recovery Drop-In Events 

Buncombe County is hosting Resources for Recovery events in February to connect survivors with county, state, and federal representatives offering assistance on FEMA claims and appeals, American Red Cross aid, permits and inspections, mental health resources, debris removal, housing assistance, birth certificates if lost in the storm, new library cards, vaccines, and more.  
Event locations and dates: 
5-7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 13 – Barnardsville Fire Station 
5-7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 20 – Owen High School Cafeteria 
5-7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 25 – Reynolds High School Cafeteria 
5-7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 27 – Leicester Community Center 
 
North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program 
Buncombe County residents impacted by Hurricane Helene can receive personalized recovery assistance through the NC Disaster Case Management Program. Participants will be paired with a dedicated case manager to guide them through the recovery process and connect them with local, state, and federal resources. 
To enroll, call 844-746-2326 or complete the intake survey at buncombeready.org. 

Community Engagement Markets Return 

After a temporary pause due to emergency response efforts, Buncombe County’s Community Engagement Markets are resuming to provide free food, medical services, and recovery resources. 
Markets will take place at Aston Park Tower and Fairview Library this week, with additional monthly markets at Big Ivy, Shiloh, Candler, Pisgah View, and more. Visit buncombecounty.org/communityengagement for the full schedule. 

FEMA Transitional Sheltering Assistance Update 

FEMA continues to assist Western North Carolina residents through the Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program, which provides temporary hotel stays for those working toward securing permanent housing. TSA remains available through May 26 for eligible individuals.

For assistance, call 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. 
As TSA participation declines, an increase in rental assistance approvals reflects a positive transition for residents moving into long-term housing solutions. 
Community Care Stations Remain Open 
Residents can access showers, laundry services, bottled water, and other essential resources daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Bethel United Methodist Church, Fairview Ingles, Morgan Hill Baptist Church, and Owen Pool, which is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. as well as weekends from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Bird Flu Update at Lake Julian 

Parks staff have identified eight deceased waterfowl at Lake Julian, with an initial test of a deceased bird indicating a possible presence of H5N1 or bird flu. The park remains open and human risk of infection is low, but visitors are urged to follow safety guidelines as aligned by park signage: 

Avoid touching or feeding waterfowl 
Stay away from dead or sick birds 
Wash hands regularly 
Report sick or deceased birds to a park ranger 
A reminder that certain parks, such as Owen Park remain closed due to unsafe conditions, and residents are urged not to enter the park for their safety. For more bird flu general guidance, please read this article. 

Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Funds Approved 

At last night’s meeting, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approved a $2 million budget amendment from state disaster relief funds. These funds will restore full-service delivery for school nurses and the animal shelter, critical services previously affected by expenditure reductions. 
For more information and updates on recovery efforts, call the One Buncombe Call Center at 828-250-6100, or visit buncombeready.org and engage.buncombecounty.org/buncomberecovers.