Flooding in Buncombe County and nearby regions of Western North Carolina has resulted in mandatory evacuation orders as rivers surge beyond their banks.
Although Hurricane Helene has been downgraded to a tropical storm, its trajectory has caused widespread disruption, including power outages, flooding, and landslides.
Recent measurements from NOAA and USGS river gauges show concerning flood levels in local river basins. The flood stage is marked at 9.5 feet, signifying minor flooding, while 13 feet represents moderate flooding, and 18 feet indicates major flooding.
At 7:45 a.m., the French Broad River in Asheville measured 13.75 feet, with a forecasted peak of 21 feet by 8 p.m. The river at Fletcher reached 20.35 feet at 8:15 a.m., expected to hit a record 30.5 feet later in the day. Near Marshall, the French Broad River was documented at 12.21 feet at 8 a.m., projected to peak at 19 feet. The Swannanoa River at Biltmore measured 17.72 feet at 8:30 a.m., with a predicted peak of 21 feet by 2 p.m.
Flood advisories are currently in effect for several locations:
– French Broad River at Marshall affecting Madison County
– French Broad River near Hot Springs impacting Madison County
– French Broad River at Blantyre affecting Transylvania and Henderson Counties
– French Broad River at Asheville impacting Buncombe County
– French Broad River near Fletcher affecting Henderson and Buncombe Counties
– Swannanoa River at Biltmore affecting Buncombe County
Tropical storm warnings remain in effect for much of Western North Carolina. Residents are encouraged to check their local NWS forecast for detailed information.
Due to heightened flooding risks, mandatory evacuations have been initiated in several areas. The North Fork Reservoir has breached its spillway, prompting Buncombe County to issue evacuation orders for residents along North Fork Road to Old U.S. 70, following the Swannanoa River to Biltmore Village. Specific evacuation zones include:
– North Fork Road south to U.S. 70
– U.S. 70 west to Old Farm School Road
– Old Farm School Road to Azalea Road
– Azalea Road to Swannanoa River Road
– Swannanoa River Road to Biltmore Village
Additionally, a mandatory evacuation order has been issued for 105 Balsam Road from the Camp Ridgecrest for Girls campus to U.S. 70 in Black Mountain due to flooding at a dam.
On September 26, McDowell County Emergency Services advised residents near creeks, rivers, and streams at high risk of flash flooding to evacuate.
Haywood County officials have reported that all county roads should be considered closed until further notice due to the flooding situation.
This situation is ongoing and updates will be provided as they become available.