Asheville Mayor Describes Post-Apocalyptic Scene After Hurricane Helene

Workers clear debris in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, in Cedar Key, Fla., Friday, Sept. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer described the aftermath of Hurricane Helene as a scene of chaos and devastation. The power lines are tangled like spaghetti, and the city resembles a post-apocalyptic setting from a TV show. The community is reeling from the impact of the storm, unsure of when power and water services will be restored.

The urgent need for critical resources such as food, drinking water, portable toilets, baby formula, and other essentials is evident. With access to the community cut off on three major highways, receiving outside assistance has become a significant challenge. Some essential supplies are being airlifted in to address the immediate needs of the residents.

Power lines tangled like spaghetti, hindering restoration efforts.

Mayor Manheimer describes post-apocalyptic scene in Asheville.

Community in urgent need of food, water, and essentials.

Mayor Manheimer shared harrowing accounts of houses floating down the river with people inside, indicating a rising death toll. While hoping for minimal casualties, the community is bracing for the worst-case scenario. Despite the devastation, the mayor expressed gratitude for the community's resilience and unity in supporting one another during this crisis.