Hurricane Helene devastates tourism in Asheville

In western North Carolina, a 26-mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway has reopened, providing a crucial boost to local tourism and businesses that have suffered since Hurricane Helene devastated the area almost a year ago. The hurricane caused significant damage and led to the closure of businesses and disruption of critical infrastructure, particularly affecting restaurants, bars, and lodges that relied heavily on fall tourism and the peak leaf-changing season. Asheville, a popular tourist destination, experienced a dramatic decline in visitors due to concerns over road conditions and water supply following the storm. Despite the reopening, local businesses are still grappling with lost revenue, as many residents and tourists remained hesitant to return. The parkway's restoration aligns with efforts to revive the local economy, fostering optimism that the fall season will bring back tourism dollars. As these businesses anticipate returning customers, they face the challenge of recovering from the losses incurred during the closures and rebuilding confidence among potential visitors. Tourist traffic is critical in this area, especially in the fourth quarter of the year, and the reopening of this section of the parkway signifies hope for both tourism and local economies in the aftermath of the devastating storm.