Buncombe County I-40 East Reopens, water and food distribution sites updates

Photo courtesy of Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Press release from Buncombe County: 

Overnight I-40 East out of Buncombe County to McDowell County reopened. Check real-time road conditions via DriveNC.gov before traveling.

Water and Food

Bring containers to fill up water as we have tankers filled with potable (drinkable) water. MRE’s, or ready-to-eat meals, are also currently available at all sites as supplies last.
These sites are located at:
  • William W. Estes Elementary School – 275 Overlook Road, Asheville
  • Sand Hill Elementary – 154 Sand Hill School Road, Asheville (Please enter via Acton Circle)
  • North Windy Ridge Intermediate School – 20 Doan Road, Weaverville
  • Fairview Elementary School – 1355 Charlotte Highway, Fairview
  • Ingles Black Mountain – 550 NC-9, Black Mountain, NC 28711 (this site is operated by the Town of Black Mountain with support from County warehouse distribution)
In addition to these county sites, the City of Asheville is distributing water at:
  • Pack Square Park (80 Court Plaza, Asheville) – Bring containers
  • Asheville Middle School (211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville) – Cases of bottled water will be available via drive-through
Shelters
The County’s shelters are currently full or nearing capacity. However, efforts are underway to open an additional shelter, with details expected later this afternoon.
Search and Rescue
Search and rescue operations remain active, with teams continuing to reach individuals still trapped by the storm’s aftermath. Officials confirmed 50 individuals have lost their lives in Buncombe from the storm.
Consumer Protection
North Carolina Consumer Protection Agency lines are open to report price gouging and other Helene-related concerns. To report, call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM (1-877-566-7226). All bad actors taking advantage of this situation should be reported.

Town of Montreat Update

Three bridges that were previously damaged are now open. Montreat College has been evacuated. The town is recommended relocations for those with gas and a place to go. Lake Susan Dam continues to operate as designed and remains structurally sound. Water service restoration remains uncertain, with hundreds of feet of damaged water line slowing the process. Bottled water is being distributed at the Montreat Gate from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Power has been restored to parts of Black Mountain, easing cleanup efforts in the area.

UNC Asheville

Since Friday morning, the university has been without electricity, water, and internet access, and cellular communication has been limited. Though the university sustained minimal structural damage, the 1,300 students who remained on campus have since been relocated. Campus operations are currently closed, with only essential personnel allowed on site.
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