Hurricane Helene Leaves Western North Carolina Grappling with Water Safety Concerns

In September, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on Swannanoa, a town near Asheville, North Carolina, leaving families and businesses struggling to recover.

For Stephen Knight and his family, the storm’s aftermath included damaged homes, disrupted routines, and a critical water crisis.

The damage to the North Fork water plant plunged many residents into weeks of uncertainty about when clean water would be available again.

Initially, water restoration efforts allowed only non-consumable use, with tap water unsafe for drinking or cooking.

Parents were warned to keep children from ingesting water during baths, while others relied on bottled water and public “comfort stations” for daily needs.

Meals requiring boiled water vanished from menus, and bleach-dipped dishwashing became standard practice.

By mid-November, Asheville lifted its boil advisory, but trust in the water supply remains fragile. Concerns linger, especially with lead detected in seven area schools.

While the city boosted chlorine levels to combat contamination, it raised fears of pipe corrosion and long-term water safety issues. Residents like Stephanie Allen and Knight still avoid using city water for drinking or cooking, seeking clearer evidence of its safety.

Businesses faced additional hurdles.

Cecilia’s restaurant adapted by switching to bottled water and portable water systems, while Pennycup Coffee Co. relied on large industrial totes to maintain operations.

Despite these efforts, some customers remain wary of dining out or buying from establishments using restored city water.

Experts like Dr. Sally Schmeltzer emphasize the need for widespread water testing and public education to avoid future crises.

Schmeltzer’s open letter called for proactive measures, including testing for lead and copper in older buildings and offering free blood tests for at-risk populations.

Clear communication, she asserts, is essential for restoring public confidence in Asheville’s water supply.

As residents and businesses inch toward recovery, many agree that lessons from Helene’s aftermath underscore the importance of preparedness and transparency in managing public health emergencies.