As Hurricane Helene approaches, the mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, is facing the threat of severe flooding. The weather services have issued warnings of potential record-breaking flooding in the area.
According to Asheville Fire Chief Michael Cayse, the town is expecting even worse conditions as there is limited capacity for the water to be absorbed or drained. The fire department has been actively involved in water rescues, with several incidents reported overnight. Drivers have been cautioned against driving into standing water, which has led to some individuals getting stranded. Additionally, a kayaker had to be rescued after being overwhelmed by the swift currents.
One of the popular tourist spots in the region, Biltmore Village, is bracing for significant impact. The Swannanoa River is projected to reach a historic depth of 21 feet on Friday, surpassing a century-old record of 20.7 feet. This level is more than double the river's flood stage of 10 feet, indicating the severity of the impending flooding.
The community in Asheville is urged to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the evolving weather conditions. Authorities are on high alert and are working diligently to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the face of this natural disaster.
