The Swannanoa River in Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina, has surged to extraordinary flood levels, the highest since 1791, following the heavy rains brought by Hurricane Helene.
Helene struck land late Thursday near Perry, Florida, as a Category 4 hurricane, boasting winds up to 140 mph. This powerful storm unleashed life-threatening storm surges, destructive winds, and relentless rainfall across Florida, resulting in the tragic loss of seventeen lives, as reported by the Associated Press.
As it rapidly pushed inland, the storm transformed into a post-tropical cyclone, now affecting Kentucky with winds of 35 mph. In North Carolina, the aftermath has been devastating, with severe flooding reported.
Asheville has experienced such intense rainfall that the Swannanoa River rose dramatically, peaking at 26.6 feet after climbing 19 feet in just 20 hours. It now stands a staggering 10 feet above the threshold for major flooding, an achievement not witnessed since 1791.
The National Water Prediction Service confirmed, “Record Flood Stage. This stage last occurred in April of 1791…Catastrophic flooding of the Swannanoa River Valley is likely.” Flooding at this level results in “extensive inundation of structures and roads” and necessitates significant evacuations.
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Fortunately, according to river gauges, the Swannanoa River appears to have crested, and levels are expected to start declining. Forecasts predict it will drop below moderate flood stage by Saturday morning and continue to recede below the action stage by early Sunday.
A flash flood warning from the NWS indicated that while flooding effects will persist, little additional rainfall is anticipated. Areas at risk include downtown Asheville, East Asheville, Arden, and other regions throughout Buncombe County.
Social media has been flooded with images and videos showcasing the desperate situation, with streets, homes, and businesses submerged.
The deluge has been so severe that some cities in North Carolina could receive ten times their average monthly rainfall. As of Friday afternoon, Asheville recorded a total of 13.15 inches, far exceeding its typical monthly average of 3.81 inches.
Furthermore, due to the extreme risk of failure at the Lake Lure Dam, urgent evacuations have been implemented in Rutherford County.