Haywood County offered many more services in Spanish for its Latino community during Helene than it had in past emergencies. The community’s experience demonstrates the challenges counties have in meeting the needs of all their constituents.
Announcements
Upcoming Events

One year ago, Western North Carolina was pummeled by Hurricane Helene, claiming 108 lives, displacing families and leaving behind millions of cubic yards of debris that will cost billions to clean up.
The scars from Helene may be slowly healing, but many people are still working to rebuild their homes, livelihoods and sense of normalcy.
One year later, Blue Ridge Public Radio has been talking to community members about their experiences, what issues rose to the top and where we stand today.
The scars from Helene may be slowly healing, but many people are still working to rebuild their homes, livelihoods and sense of normalcy.
One year later, Blue Ridge Public Radio has been talking to community members about their experiences, what issues rose to the top and where we stand today.
Helene Recovery
Politics & Government
Climate & Environment
Growth & Development
Arts & Culture
State headlines
National headlines
-
The statue honors Trump's "long-lasting bond" with Epstein, which the president denies. The National Park Service took down the statue after one day last week, saying it didn't comply with its permit.
-
The White House and GOP lawmakers say a provision in the Big Beautiful Bill that Democrats want rolled back keeps undocumented people from getting health benefits — a claim experts say is misleading.
More local stories
-
Swain County Board of Commission Chairman Kevin Seagle was absent at Tuesday night’s county commission meeting. His resignation is effective Aug. 31.
-
Manheimer, who has led the city since 2013, is the first candidate to enter the 2026 race, citing her commitment to oversee Asheville’s long-term recovery from Hurricane Helene.
-
What you need to know from the Aug. 19 Buncombe County Board of Commissioners meeting.
-
Residents of Swannanoa gathered for a training that aimed to help them prepare in case of another disaster.
-
The November concert series is pegged to the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Asheville Sessions.
-
Helene damaged and closed around 1,500 public roads statewide. All but 70 have fully reopened.
Stay informed with BPR's weekly newsletters.
Get news updates, learn about upcoming events, and go behind the scenes with our reporters.