A current assessment and resources for those affected
Updated 10/16/24: Hotels and resorts across the area that closed are reopening, including Naples Grande Beach Resort, which did not suffer any damage, but did have a few groups cancel during the hurricane. Plans are underway to reschedule for a future date, according to a statement. Power had been restored to all but 77,000 residents by Oct. 16, according to poweroutage.us.
Updated 10/25/24: As of Oct. 25, VisitNC, using data from North Carolina’s state departments of safety and transportation, Buncombe County, Asheville and Black Mountain have been designated as safe to visit, with a recommendation to “plan ahead.” Weaverville is cleared for safe travel, while Swannanoa remains under a “do not travel” advisory as a high impact area.
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Hurricane Milton made landfall in western Florida yesterday, leaving nine dead and nearly 3.5 million residents and 165 health care facilities without power. Over 80,000 Floridians are currently being supported by nearly 300 operating shelters. In a twist of fate, Hillsborough County, which had offered comfort stations, income eligible hotel assistance and FEMA assistance to those impacted by Hurricane Helene’s September 26 landfall, was suddenly forced to end those services in preparation for incoming Hurricane Milton.
The full damage of Hurricane Milton is currently under assessment, as southeastern states are still reeling from Hurricane Helene’s trail of destruction. In western North Carolina, government agencies and local residents have come together tirelessly to salvage the wreckage and ensure everyone’s safety. The storm resulted in at least 230 fatalities, with unprecedented rainfall causing significant flooding in the region.
In Buncombe County, major infrastructure damage—particularly to the main water plant at North Fork—has created significant challenges in restoring access to basic needs. Residents have shown remarkable resilience and community spirit, from sharing and distributing supplies to performing heroic rescues and supporting one another through heartbreaking recoveries.
Hurricane Helene has left many in distress, and assessments of current needs are ongoing. For immediate assistance, monetary donations to on-the-ground organizations are often recommended, as these funds help those affected manage urgent expenses and prepare for what will be a lengthy restoration process. Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer candidly stated to reporters, “I can’t even think about a time frame for how long it’s going to take to recover.”
As of Oct. 25, 2024, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is open, and Biltmore plans to reopen on Nov. 2. Other local businesses have began to open their doors as well, although some with limited hours or reduced menus.
If you have travel plans to Asheville in early November, Explore Asheville recommends checking with your lodging provider and any businesses you wish to visit to confirm their availability. Additionally, consult DriveNC.gov for information on open roads and safe routes to your destination.
St. Pete/Clearwater is once again ready to welcome visitors, with nearly 80% of the destination now open, including guest rooms, attractions, dining, museums and shops. Beach access to Clearwater Beach is open, and over the coming weeks, the destination is set to open more beaches and parks.
While most of the destination is open Visit St. Pete-Clearwater recommends travelers to contact their hotel or Airbnb to make sure they are up to date.
“It’s important for everyone to know that St. Pete-Clearwater is Still Shining and ready as always to welcome residents and visitors to our beautiful beaches, amazing arts and experiences, and delicious coastal dining options,” said Brian Lowack, president and CEO of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater. “While our destination experienced serious impact from the recent storms, the images and videos that have circulated do not represent the entirety of the destination and many of our visitors’ favorites are open and ready to welcome guests. Now is a great time to not just enjoy that walk on the beach, but also explore all the other amazing attributes that make us America’s favorite beaches.”
On Oct. 17 and 18, six Mainsail Lodging & Development raised $13,500 to help Florida and Georgia communities that have been impacted by the hurricanes.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support of our communities and our guests,” said Joe Collier, president and founder of Mainsail Lodging & Development. “We partnered with the American Red Cross because of their trusted leadership in disaster relief, and Giving Kitchen because of their commitment to helping food service workers, many of whom were profoundly affected by the hurricanes. These organizations align with our values, and we’re proud to contribute to their efforts in helping our neighbors and the hospitality industry recover and rebuild.”
In Florida, participating venues include EDGE Rooftop Cocktail Lounge at Epicurean Hotel in Tampa), Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar at Fenway Hotel in Dunedin and Beacon Social Drinkery at Luminary Hotel & Co. in downtown Fort Myers. In Georgia, they include Hightales Rooftop Bar at Hotel Forty Five in Macon, Oliver’s Twist Bar & View at Trilith Guesthouse in Fayetteville and The Office Bar at Epicurean Atlanta in Midtown.
This is the third consecutive year Mainsail has held fundraising events following hurricanes, according to Collier.
We’ve researched several ways to assist those in need:
Always Asheville Fund: Established by the nonprofit organization Explore Asheville, the Always Asheville Fund supports small, independent travel and hospitality businesses through grants. “We are committed to supporting the livelihood and vitality of Asheville’s small business owners,” Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism and Development Authority, said. “We’ll continue developing innovative and responsive solutions to walk alongside our partners on the road to recovery. It’s our aim that the Asheville area will emerge on the other side of this stronger and more vibrant than ever.”
The SEARCH Foundation: The SEARCH Foundation has been providing event, meetings and catering professionals emergency assistance since 1997, and is accepting applications for crisis funds for those affected by Hurricane Helene. The organization has also compiled additional resource options, such as United Way of North Carolina, Operation Airdrop and Chabad of Asheville.
Businesses large and small are also stepping up to provide aid, such as Marriott International, which is contributing to the American Red Cross and World Central Kitchen, and allowing Marriott Bonvoy members to use their points to make donations.
GlobalGiving partners, a top-rated charity on Charity Navigator, launched Hurricane Milton Relief Fund to meet urgent needs for food, fuel, clean water and shelter.
Love Asheville From Afar: Love Asheville From Afar is a centralized space where people can buy local products and gift cards, and make donations to the Asheville area and Buncombe County businessess
