Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction in North Carolina, significantly impacting the state's infrastructure, particularly Interstate 40. The storm caused widespread flooding, mudslides, and damage to several sections of the interstate.
I-40 Closures and Repairs
A mudslide on the North Carolina side resulted in a partial collapse of I-40 near the Tennessee border. This section of the interstate remains closed in both directions, with I-40 East reopened only for evacuation purposes from Buncombe County as of Tuesday morning. I-40 West into the mountains is still closed to all but emergency vehicles.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) are working together to assess and repair the damage. Officials estimate that the repairs will take 'months at best' due to the extensive damage, including the collapse of several bridges and the need for entirely new builds to reconnect communities.
Alternate Routes and Travel Advisories
Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Western North Carolina. For those needing to travel, Interstate 81 offers a bypass to I-40, connecting with Interstate 26 to provide an alternate route to Asheville and other areas in North Carolina. Another option is U.S. Route 25E, which takes travelers from Knoxville northeast through Morristown, linking up with Interstate 81.
Interstate 26, which was initially closed, has reopened to help residents evacuate and allow emergency workers to access the area. However, Interstate 26 between mile markers 40 and 43 remains a major focus for repairs, along with State Route 81 in Unicoi and Washington counties.
Broader Impact and Relief Efforts
The devastation from Hurricane Helene extends beyond the interstate closures. The storm has caused significant damage to hundreds of roads in Western North Carolina, many of which remain impassable. Relief efforts are ongoing, with a focus on evacuating affected areas and providing aid to those impacted by the storm.
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, a major tourist attraction, has also been affected by the flooding, though specific details on the extent of the damage are still being assessed. The broader community, including scenic areas like Lake Lure, has been described as 'post-apocalyptic' due to the severe damage caused by Helene.
