How Apex Waves is helping North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene

“We lost everything”. These words are all too familiar to hundreds of families, business owners, and individuals fighting to rebuild what was tore down in Asheville, a Western North Carolina town rarely impacted by natural disasters like the 4th worst hurricane in history, Helene. 

As Hurricane Helene tore through Asheville, NC, the community faced a groundbreaking amount of destruction. With heavy rainfall igniting historic floods, entire neighborhoods were left submerged, roads impassable, and thousands without power. The storm, one of the most devastating in Asheville’s recent history, left a trail of damage that will take years to rebuild. As the city rallies to recover, local organizations like Apex Waves are stepping up to provide critical relief and support, with the goal of helping Asheville navigate the long road to recovery.

The Immediate Aftermath: How Asheville Was Affected by Hurricane Helene

Days after Hurricane Helene made landfall, Asheville saw unimaginable destruction. Massive downpours caused by the storm resulted in flash floods, submerging entire neighborhoods and cutting off sections of the city. There was significant damage to vital infrastructure, such as electrical networks and bridges, which affected thousands of people’s everyday lives. Those left without cellphone service were unable to contact emergency services, friends, and loved ones. Widespread power outages affected the populace, and rescue teams put in endless hours to free individuals stranded by rising seas. The challenges for those who stayed were made worse by the lack of water and electricity in many communities.

Hurricane Helene left Asheville and the surrounding areas in unprecedented devastation. Search and rescue crews committed endless hours searching through neighborhoods littered with debris in an attempt to find the victims. As the floodwaters subsided, automobiles were piled on top of one another and homes were washed away, causing massive destruction in the village of Swannanoa, which is close to Asheville. Following the loss of nearly 200 lives in several states, including 57 in Asheville, the area now faces an arduous road to recovery.

Kim and Rod Ashby were visiting their home in Elk Park, North Carolina, just before Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact (CNN US). Despite warnings from the National Weather Service about severe flooding and landslides, they felt secure as their house was elevated. However, on the morning of September 27, the house was swept away by floodwaters from the Elk River.

Rod Ashby managed to survive by grabbing onto a tree branch, but Kim was tragically separated from him. Kim Ashby remains missing, with her family continuing to search for answers amid widespread devastation.

In Swannanoa’s Black Mountain Mobile Home Park, the Ramos family was among those who fled for safety as the Swannanoa River rapidly swelled. In a panic, Carina Ramos, Ezekiel Bianchi, and their children left behind their three vehicles and many of their possessions. Beyond the damage, widespread outages left communities without vital cellular service, further complicating rescue and recovery efforts in areas already grappling with immense loss.

Community Response: Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Following Hurricane Helene, Asheville’s community response has been a powerful force of support and resilience. Delivery trucks and mobile refrigeration units are actively distributing emergency supplies, while staff and volunteers prepare ready-to-go meals for affected families. Local food banks and first responders are working together to ensure that nonperishable items, tarps, and other essential resources reach those in need.

Apex Waves is working to support Asheville’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene by contributing 10% of proceeds throughout the month of October to relief efforts. 

Partnering with Ingles Markets, the American Red Cross has established three fixed feeding sites in Western North Carolina, making meal options more accessible for those impacted by the disaster. Additionally, the North Carolina Air National Guard, in coordination with FEMA, has successfully delivered over 100,000 pounds of food, water, and other critical supplies to victims of Hurricane Helene.

These efforts are a testament to the region’s commitment to supporting its own through this challenging time.

Restoring Infrastructure: Rebuilding After Hurricane Helene

Western North Carolina was once one of the most popular tourist attractions on the East Coast, bringing in millions of visitors per year. Now, the tourism industry faces economic devastation post-Helene, threatening millions of dollars in revenue lost if tourism cannot resume this fall.

The path of destruction left by Hurricane Helene impacted critical infrastructure throughout Asheville and its surrounding communities. Roads were washed out by the floodwaters, and numerous buildings were damaged or destroyed. Power grids were heavily affected, leaving thousands without electricity for days. Local and state authorities quickly mobilized to repair major highways, such as Interstate 40, and restore access to isolated areas. Teams of engineers and utility workers have been working around the clock to rebuild, with special attention to stabilizing damaged roads, repairing electrical systems, and addressing collapsed water plants. While progress has been steady, the scale of the damage means that full recovery could take years.

Economic Recovery: Helping Local Businesses Get Back on Their Feet

As Asheville begins to rebuild, local businesses are critical to the city’s recovery. Governor Cooper emphasized coordinated efforts between state, local, and private partners to restore essential services, including power and water, while also providing food and shelter to those in need. This initiative will help local businesses and families regain stability after the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene.

In addition to business recovery efforts, local and state officials are providing financial assistance to help Asheville’s small businesses rebuild after the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene. These funds are crucial for repairing facilities, restoring inventory, and keeping minimizing the risk of workers losing their income. Community-based financial support is also essential as these efforts are key to ensuring that Asheville’s economy bounces back stronger than ever.

A Bright Future Ahead: Asheville’s Path to Full Recovery

As Asheville continues to rebuild from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, the community’s resilience is evident. Upcoming events, such as local fundraisers and volunteer days, will mobilize residents to support the city’s restoration. Government relief, combined with community-driven initiatives, is accelerating recovery efforts. As businesses, organizations, and residents work hand in hand, Asheville’s recovery looks promising, with the strength of the community driving the process forward.

Apex Waves is deeply passionate about extending a helping hand to those affected by Helene, contributing 10% of proceeds throughout October to relief efforts. This donation will directly aid families, businesses, and community initiatives that are focused on rebuilding the city.