What is FEMA doing in Western North Carolina? An agency spokesperson explains
A FEMA spokesperson discusses what on-the-ground operations look like in Western North Carolina.
Local News
Banner Elk works to fix sewer main after damage from Helene
Banner Elk officials still want people to stay off the roads unless travel is essential, and they are asking those who planned to visit in October to reschedule.
FEMA workers change some hurricane-recovery efforts in North Carolina after receiving threats
Federal disaster workers paused and then changed some of their hurricane-recovery efforts in North Carolina, including abandoning door-to-door visits, after receiving threats that they could be targeted by a militia, officials said, as the government response to Helene is targeted by runaway disinformation.
Road closures delay reopening for Watauga County Schools after Helene
Watauga County public schools remain closed for a third week following the devastation of Helene in western North Carolina. Officials say damaged infrastructure is one of the biggest barriers to resuming classes.
Republican lawsuits target rules for overseas voters, but those ballots are already sent
The latest method of voting to fall into the political crosshairs is the way overseas voters — including members of the military stationed abroad — cast their ballots.
Volunteers bring solar power to Hurricane Helene's disaster zone
About 23,500 of the 1.5 million customers that lost power in western North Carolina still lacked electricity on Sunday. Without it, they can’t keep medicines cold, power medical equipment or pump well water.
Harris goes to North Carolina, plans to hold Sunday campaign event in state hit hard by hurricane
Vice President Kamala Harris is meeting with Black leaders in North Carolina on Saturday and will attend church in the state ahead of a rally, according to her campaign. The weekend trip is her second time in the battleground state after it was struck by Hurricane Helene.
Wake Forest's fee for canceling football game vs. Ole Miss is covered by new Oregon State deal
Wake Forest canceled next year's trip to No.
Ashe Memorial Hospital mostly untouched by Hurricane Helene
Ashe Memorial Hospital was operational throughout Hurricane Helene and is in prepared to meet all health care needs in the area.
Updates: Recovery efforts continue after Helene
Communities in western North Carolina continue to assess the devastating damage from Helene while working to provide resources for those isolated without food and power. In addition to the latest updates, this blog contains ways to assist in those efforts.