The media focus might have shifted away from Hurricane Helene and onto Hurricane Milton, but hundreds of thousands of American citizens are still struggling with the first round of hurricane damage.
New reports suggest that as many as 100,000 people may even be without running water. In 21st Century America.
At a glance:
- Up to 100,000 people in Western North Carolina are without running water after Tropical Storm Helene caused widespread flooding.
- The North Fork Reservoir, which serves 80% of Asheville’s water customers, was heavily damaged by sediment from the storm.
- A boil water notice is in effect for those receiving water, as the system is still contaminated with sediment and requires treatment.
In the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, a massive water crisis has left nearly 100,000 people in Western North Carolina without running water. The storm caused severe flooding in the region, damaging Asheville’s primary water infrastructure and leaving more than half of the city’s water customers without access to safe water.
The storm impacted the North Fork Reservoir, which provides water to around 80% of the city’s population, including Asheville and parts of Buncombe and Henderson counties. The reservoir was inundated with sediment from heavy rainfall, and critical water lines at the North Fork Water Treatment Plant were destroyed. Additionally, backup water lines buried 25 feet underground were also compromised.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQcCzkUtlbg
Water officials in Asheville have stated that it could be weeks before full water service is restored. Crews have been working to repair the damage, including installing a 36-inch bypass line to restore some water flow. Water is currently reaching certain areas, such as Swannanoa, but it remains heavily chlorinated and contaminated with sediment.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visited the site on October 10 to assess the damage and monitor repair efforts. Although some progress has been made, Asheville officials have issued a boil water notice, reminding residents that the water is not safe for consumption without boiling for at least one minute.
For those still without water, Asheville has provided detailed instructions on how to prepare for the eventual return of service, including turning off water heaters and faucets to prevent damage once the water system is restored.
The situation has placed significant strain on residents, many of whom have been relying on bottled water and potable water trucks stationed throughout the area. It remains unclear when full water service will be available again, but city officials are continuing their efforts to repair the water system as quickly as possible.
