To mark the first anniversary of Hurricane Helene, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor reflecting on the storm’s impact on Western North Carolina and ongoing recovery efforts.
Hurricane Helene struck the Blue Ridge Mountains on September 26, 2024, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. According to Senator Budd, “108 lives were tragically lost in this disaster, leaving their families grieving. To this day, five individuals remain unaccounted for, leaving their loved ones without answers.”
Budd highlighted both the devastation and the resilience shown by local communities. He said, “The people of the Appalachian Mountains are leaning on faith, hope, and determination to carry us through the aftermath of this storm.” He recalled witnessing relief work firsthand alongside North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler and praised organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse and Baptists on Mission for their response.
Businesses including Lowe’s, Walmart, AT&T, and Verizon contributed funds and resources to support rebuilding efforts. Budd also shared stories of individual acts of heroism during and after the storm—such as Eddie Hunnell rescuing a stranger from floodwaters in Spruce Pine and Junior Singleton helping neighbors escape rising waters in Avery County.
Community-driven recovery initiatives have played a significant role over the past year. In Yancey County, students from Mountain Heritage High School partnered with Rebuilding Hollers to construct tiny homes for survivors. The town of Hot Springs formed Rebuild Hot Springs Area to raise funds for families and businesses affected by flooding; the town officially reopened to visitors in May 2025.
Local officials like Chief Steve Freeman in Bat Cave coordinated evacuations and rescue operations despite extended power outages. In Chimney Rock, community leaders worked with nonprofits and volunteers—including Amish partners from Pennsylvania—to rebuild Main Street using reclaimed materials.
Large sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway have reopened since the storm; remaining damaged areas are expected to be accessible next year. The parkway is vital for tourism and small businesses in Western North Carolina.
Senator Budd addressed challenges related to federal disaster aid: “Communities spent millions of dollars to clean up and rebuild with the promise of federal reimbursement. They’ve been met with unnecessary bureaucratic gridlock as the federal government reviews grant applications and slow pays funds.” He added that delays have strained local budgets already impacted by reduced tourism revenue.
Efforts continue at both state and federal levels to reduce backlogs in project reimbursements. Budd stated, “President Trump and I know that needs are still urgent, and we are working together to get Western North Carolinians the help they need.”
He concluded his remarks by thanking local leaders, emergency personnel, volunteers, and residents: “It is your unyielding spirit that has inspired all of us throughout North Carolina and across the nation. I will continue to speak up for you in the United States Senate and know that your loss will never be forgotten.”
