As Hurricane Helene continues to bear down on the southeastern United States, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NC DOT) has issued a stern warning advising travelers to avoid all non-essential travel in Western North Carolina. The warning comes amid widespread road closures and hazardous conditions caused by the storm’s heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding.
Impact of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina
Hurricane Helene, which made landfall on the North Carolina coast earlier this week, has rapidly moved inland, bringing torrential rainfall and severe wind gusts to the region. Western North Carolina, known for its mountainous terrain, is particularly vulnerable to landslides, flash flooding, and road washouts during extreme weather events.
According to the National Weather Service, some areas have already received up to 10 inches of rain, with more expected as the hurricane slowly moves through the region. Riverbanks and streams are overflowing, leading to life-threatening flash floods in multiple counties, including Buncombe, Henderson, and Jackson.
NC DOT Road Closures and Travel Advisories
As of [Current Date], NC DOT has reported the closure of numerous roads, including major highways and local roads, due to dangerous conditions.
- Interstate 40 (I-40), which serves as a critical east-west route through the state, is currently closed near the Tennessee state line due to a major rockslide. Crews are working to clear the debris, but officials warn that it could take several days for the road to reopen.
- US Highway 74, a key thoroughfare connecting Asheville to Sylva and other western towns, has been blocked by floodwaters and fallen trees in multiple locations.
- Several sections of the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, popular with tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, have also been closed due to landslides and hazardous driving conditions.
Drivers are advised to avoid all travel in the region unless absolutely necessary. For those who must travel, NC DOT recommends checking road conditions through their official website or calling 511 for real-time updates.
Safety Concerns and Emergency Responses
With flooding already displacing hundreds of residents and causing widespread power outages, emergency responders are working around the clock to assist those in need. North Carolina Governor [Governor’s Name] has declared a state of emergency and has mobilized the National Guard to aid in rescue operations and relief efforts.
Shelters have been set up in affected counties to provide refuge for those forced to evacuate their homes due to rising waters. Local authorities urge residents to heed evacuation orders and avoid driving through flooded roads, as even a few inches of water can sweep vehicles away.
“The safety of our citizens is our top priority,” said [Official Name], NC DOT’s Chief Engineer. “We understand that this is a challenging time, but we strongly encourage everyone to stay off the roads until conditions improve. Our crews are working tirelessly to restore access, but the situation is still very fluid.”
Hurricane Preparedness and Future Outlook
Weather forecasters expect the remnants of Hurricane Helene to linger over North Carolina for the next several days, with additional rainfall posing further threats to already saturated areas. While the immediate focus remains on rescue efforts and road recovery, NC DOT and other state agencies are preparing for the longer-term impact, including repairing damaged infrastructure.
Residents and travelers in the affected areas are urged to:
- Monitor local news and weather reports for the latest updates on the storm.
- Avoid all travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Follow evacuation orders and seek shelter in safe locations.
- Check for road closures through the NC DOT website or 511 service before attempting to drive.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Helene continues to wreak havoc across Western North Carolina, NC DOT’s message is clear: Stay off the roads, prioritize safety, and allow emergency crews to do their work. With widespread flooding, road damage, and dangerous conditions persisting, avoiding unnecessary travel is essential in protecting lives and ensuring a faster recovery for the region.
For continuous updates, visit the NC DOT website or follow them on social media.