Story perspectives

Buncombe County Thrives: Resilience Shines Post-Hurricane Helene

9/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

Buncombe County is recovering economically one year after Hurricane Helene, with 87.8% of local businesses currently open despite FEMA's estimate that 40% of small businesses fail to reopen post-disaster.
UNC Asheville will host the Post-Helene Symposium from September 24-26, themed “Remembering, Rebuilding, and Reimagining.”
Resident John Saunby creatively uses hurricane debris to construct a new home, demonstrating resilience.
The Haywood Day of Resilience on September 20 highlighted community support and healing.
AIDNET of Greene County has managed 65 disaster cases since last September, with only 7 still open.

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Story summary

Buncombe County is recovering economically one year after Hurricane Helene, with 87.8% of local businesses currently open despite FEMA's estimate that 40% of small businesses fail to reopen post-disaster.
UNC Asheville will host the Post-Helene Symposium from September 24-26, themed “Remembering, Rebuilding, and Reimagining.”
Resident John Saunby creatively uses hurricane debris to construct a new home, demonstrating resilience.
The Haywood Day of Resilience on September 20 highlighted community support and healing.
AIDNET of Greene County has managed 65 disaster cases since last September, with only 7 still open.