About 80% of the River Arts District has suffered damage, affecting hundreds of local artists who depend on fall sales to sustain their livelihood|@severeforecast|X
Hurricanes Helene and Milton have wreaked havoc in Asheville, North Carolina, intensifying the region’s economic challenges. The back-to-back storms have resulted in significant property damage and loss of business revenue during a crucial tourism season.
Local hotels and restaurants, which typically rely on October’s influx of visitors, are now grappling with closures and financial instability. The tourism sector, a key economic driver for the area, has been severely impacted.
In 2022, nearly 14 million visitors spent a record $2.97 billion in Buncombe County, but the hurricanes have forced many businesses to halt operations.
Additionally, about 80% of the River Arts District has suffered damage, affecting hundreds of local artists who depend on fall sales to sustain their livelihoods.
As recovery efforts begin, the dual storms represent a setback for the community’s economic resilience. Many local businesses are struggling to bounce back after recent challenges, including COVID-19 pandemic-related closures.
Hurricane Helene is estimated to have caused between $30.5 billion and $47.5 billion in damages across 16 states. The death toll has climbed over 230 in what is considered the deadliest US mainland hurricane since Katrina in 2005.