As Hurricane Helene makes its way north, Asheville Fire Chief Mike Cayse is particularly concerned about the potential for landslides and building collapses in the city. Approximately 2,400 homes and businesses have received direct messages urging them to evacuate immediately due to the imminent danger.
The city of Asheville has already experienced over 10 inches of rain from a previous storm, saturating the soil to the point where it cannot absorb any more water. When the outer bands of Helene hit the city, the already saturated soil is at risk of shifting, potentially causing buildings' foundations to be compromised.
Cayse emphasized the serious threat posed by the shifting ground, stating that building collapses and landslides are a major concern. The undermining of foundations due to the shifting soil increases the risk of structural failures.
While the Asheville Fire Department is prepared to handle floodwater rescues, additional support from federal search and rescue teams has been called in to assist in the event of building collapses or landslides. The collaboration between local and federal teams aims to ensure a swift and effective response to any emergencies that may arise.
Residents and business owners in Asheville are urged to heed the evacuation warnings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this critical time. The potential risks associated with the impending weather conditions highlight the importance of preparedness and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
