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Recovery Milestones

Six months have passed since Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina. Our office is committed to continuing to push forward on progress and advocating for funding to bring relief to people in western North Carolina. We recommit efforts to never forget the 106 lives lost and extend gratitude to the many people whose contributions have helped North Carolina achieve important recovery milestones. 

  • 4,500+ households have been connected with temporary housing support. 

  • 1,300+ roads have been repaired and reopened, including the reopening of Interstate 40. 

  • 5.3+ million cubic yards of debris have been removed from right of ways. 

  • 97%+ of water systems have been restored, including wastewater systems. 

  • $150 million in loans have been offered to NC home and business owners from the Small Business Administration. 

  • $20 million in grants to small businesses have been provided by the state. 

  • $35 million in grants to small businesses have been provided by philanthropies. 

  • $817 million in FEMA direct funding has been distributed ($406 M for individual assistance and $411M for public assistance). 

Visit the WNC Recovery Data Dashboards to track ongoing recovery progress. Learn more about people whose ongoing response has been at the heart of our recovery during these first six months by reading WNC Recovery Stories. 

Recovery Priorities & Progress

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we have set clear priorities to ensure a swift and effective recovery for western North Carolina, focusing on rebuilding safe housing, restoring our infrastructure, and revitalizing our economy and communities. 

Rebuilding safe housing

Residents should have access to temporary housing that meets their needs while they await their return home. Permanent housing must be built back quickly and resiliently.

Restoring our infrastructure​

Roads and bridges must be reopened, debris cleared, and utilities restored. Our natural assets – parks, trails, and waterways – are also critical to our economy and quality of life, and must be prioritized for recovery.

Revitalizing our economy & communities​

Helping small businesses survive this challenging period is critical, as is investing in our communities and people so that western NC emerges strong and vibrant.​

Western North Carolina Recovery in the News​