Hurricane Helene Updates

UPDATES:

10/4/2024 5:00 PM UPDATE

The City of Hendersonville has updated the curfew hours from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. View the State of Emergency.

City buildings remain closed to the public for regular services; however, a call center line is available. Residents and water customers can call 828-697-3052 for City-related services. 

MAJORITY OF CUSTOMERS HAVE WATER; CONSERVATION URGED 
 
As we work to restore normal water service to our remaining customers, we are asking all water customers to continue conserving water for essential uses only. 

Please refrain from non-essential activities such as washing cars, pressure washing, or any other water uses beyond what is necessary for drinking, bathing, cooking, and sanitizing.

While the majority of customers currently have water service, it is crucial that we all do our part to help our utility system recover. If all our customers responsibly use this precious resource, our system will recover more quickly, and we will be in a position to assist other communities in the future. 

Current Water Status (as of October 4, 1:00 PM): 

• 80% of customers: No System Pressure Advisory / Water is safe to drink 

• 15% of customers: System Pressure Advisory in effect / Have water service, but continue boiling water 

• 5% of customers: No water service / Extended outage possible / Once water is restored, customers will need to boil water 

Please refer to the map at www.hvlnc.gov/wateralerts to check if your property is still under a System Pressure Advisory or if it has been cleared. The Hendersonville Water Department sends direct notifications to customers as their status changes.  

UNAUTHORIZED USE OF FIRE HYDRANTS  

We want to remind the public that only authorized personnel—such as firefighters and Hendersonville Water Department personnel—are permitted to use water from fire hydrants. Using water from a hydrant without authorization is illegal and poses serious risks to the safety and integrity of our recovering water system.  

Unauthorized use of hydrants can result in contamination, reduced water pressure, and delay the timeline of water restoration to customers. Anyone found tampering with or stealing water from hydrants can be arrested and charged under Section 52-8 of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Hendersonville, and the North Carolina General Statutes.  

Violators will be prosecuted, and civil penalties will be assessed to the fullest extent permitted by law.  

If you witness suspicious activity around hydrants, please report it immediately to the Hendersonville Police Department or local law enforcement. 

FREE MINI-GOLF SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 

Free entry to the Laura E. Corn Mini-Golf at Edwards Park will be offered from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday, October 4 and Sunday October 5. This was made possible by Edifice Construction for assisting with park clean-up and volunteers who have offered to help manage the park while city crews continue to work on recovery efforts. Come out, bring your family and friends, and enjoy mini golf to relax and unwind. 

OKLAWAHA GREENWAY OPEN IN CITY OF HENDERSONVILLE 

City of Hendersonville Public Works has reopened the Oklawaha Greenway from 7th Avenue to Berkeley Park. The trail at Patton Park is also available for walking. Please be mindful of debris along the edges of the trail. We appreciate the dedication of Public Works to get this amenity back open to the public so quickly. 

GARBAGE & DEBRIS COLLECTION 

The City of Hendersonville wants to remind residents that open burning is prohibited in city limits. That includes the burning of storm debris.  

Henderson County has begun curbside storm debris removal to all county residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris for free that is pushed to the right of way of a property. Please be patient. The county will pick up this storm debris for free as soon as possible. Residents will need to place all items along the right of way in order for pickup. 

Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint, etc. Please separate household garbage, construction debris, vegetative debris, large appliances, electronics and hazardous waste to expedite the removal process. 

For household garbage, City of Hendersonville residents are asked to place their garbage carts out to the curb/street for collection. Recycling collection has been postponed until further notice.    

We will not be on our regular collection schedule due to the storm. We will be collecting extra bags until further notice, but all household garbage must be placed in garbage bags (no grocery bags please). If your carts are missing or damaged, please email jdcase@hvlnc.gov. We will get them replaced as soon as we can. If you don't have a cart, please place your bagged garbage out to the curb/street for collection.  

10/3/2024 1:00 PM UPDATE

CITY OF HENDERSONVILLE UPDATES 10/3/24 1:00 PM 

The City Council will hold a Special Called Meeting on Thursday, October 3 at 5:45 p.m. on the 2nd floor of City Hall, 160 6th Avenue East. Visit the City of Hendersonville Facebook or YouTube Page to learn about Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. City buildings remain closed to the public for regular services at this time. 

The 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM curfew remains in effect for the City of Hendersonville and Henderson County. 

CITY OF HENDERSONVILLE TO RESUME CALL SERVICES: 

On Thursday, October 3, the City of Hendersonville resumed handling calls for water & sewer and other city-related services. During the height of Helene recovery, Henderson County stepped in to help the city by handling those calls. Residents can call 828-697-3052 for City-related services and visit www.hvlnc.gov/helene for ongoing updates. 

It’s important to note Henderson County continues to operate its Emergency Operations Center line for county-related questions, shelters, resource hubs, etc. at 828-771-6670. Residents can also email helene-info@hcem.org. 

SYSTEM PRESSURE ADVISORY LIFTED FOR MOST WATER CUSTOMERS: 

This morning, Hendersonville Water & Sewer notified customers on their individual water status. Customers received notifications specific to their property to inform them of their status and will continue to receive updates as their status changes.  

View the Water Status Map

As of October 3, at 10:00 AM, Hendersonville Water & Sewer estimates the following status numbers for customers: 

• 70% - No System Pressure Advisory / Water OK to drink 
• 25% - System Pressure Advisory in Effect / Have Water Service 
• 5% - No Water / Extended Outage Possible 

Please refer to the map at www.hvlnc.gov/wateralerts to see if your property still needs to boil water or if you have been removed from the advisory. Those who remain under a System Pressure Advisory should continue to boil water before consumption. Hendersonville Water & Sewer will provide updates to customers in extended water outage areas. 

ALL customers still need to actively conserve water. The utility continues to work to restore pressure and refill our reservoirs, Hendersonville Water & Sewer needs all its customers to conserve water. Specifically, this means avoiding washing cars, pressure washing and other activities that go beyond typical individual water use for drinking, bathing and sanitizing.  

Unnecessary uses of water being observed in the community hinders the utility's ability to restore water pressure and get service restored to normal conditions for everyone.  

We know there’s a lot of cleanup that needs to be done, but let's find ways to help each other get our systems back to full strength first. 

GARBAGE & DEBRIS COLLECTION: 

The City of Hendersonville wants to remind residents that open burning is prohibited in city limits. That includes the burning of storm debris.  

Henderson County will provide curbside storm debris removal to all residents as a free service. The county will pick up storm debris that is pushed to the right of way of a property. Please be patient. The county will pick up this storm debris as soon as possible. Residents will need to place all items along the right of way in order for pickup. 

Storm debris includes tree branches, leaves, logs, building materials, furniture, paint, etc. Please separate household garbage, construction debris, vegetative debris, large appliances, electronics and hazardous waste to expedite the removal process. 

For household garbage, City of Hendersonville residents are asked to place their garbage carts out to the curb/street for collection. Recycling collection has been postponed until further notice.    

We will not be on our regular collection schedule due to the storm. We will be collecting extra bags until further notice, but all household garbage must be placed in garbage bags (no grocery bags please). If your carts are missing or damaged, please email jdcase@hvlnc.gov. We will get them replaced as soon as we can. If you don't have a cart, please place your bagged garbage out to the curb/street for collection.  

POST STORM SAFETY REMINDERS: 

• As Duke Energy and its contractors continue work to restore power across Henderson County, assume all downed power lines are live. 

• Many traffic lights in the city and county are still without power; when traffic lights at an intersection are out, drivers should treat it as a four-way stop. 

• Unplug electrical devices and turn off your main breakers if your home has experienced flooding or been impacted by the storm. Never use wet electrical devices! 

• Use flashlights instead of candles when the power is out. If you must use candles, NEVER leave them unattended! ️ 

• Be cautious around damaged buildings. Storms can weaken structures, so avoid entering buildings that might be unsafe. 
• Carbon Monoxide Dangers: Never use gas or coal-burning equipment like grills, generators, or heaters inside your home, basement, or garage. Keep them outside and at least 20 feet from windows, doors, or vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. 

10/3/2024 10:00 AM WATER UPDATE

View the Water Status Map

This morning, Hendersonville Water & Sewer announced it is lifting the system pressure advisory for some its customers, including the majority of Hendersonville residents. Customers are receiving notifications specific to their property to inform them of their status. 

Please refer to the map at www.hvlnc.gov/wateralerts to see if your property still needs to boil water or if you have been removed from the advisory. Those who remain under a System Pressure Advisory should continue to boil water before consumption.  

ALL customers still need to actively conserve water. The utility continues to work to restore pressure and refill our reservoirs, Hendersonville Water & Sewer needs all its customers to conserve water. Specifically, this means avoiding washing cars, pressure washing and other activities that go beyond typical individual water use for drinking, bathing and sanitizing.  

Unnecessary uses of water being observed in the community hinders the utility's ability to restore water pressure and get service restored to normal conditions for everyone.  

We know there’s a lot of cleanup that needs to be done, but let's find ways to help each other get our systems back to full strength first.  

10/2/2024 4:00 PM

City buildings remain closed to the public at this time. The City Council will hold a Special Called Meeting on Thursday, October 3 at 5:45 p.m. on the 2nd floor of City Hall, 160 6th Avenue East. 

The 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM curfew remains in effect for the City of Hendersonville and Henderson County. 

It’s important to note Henderson County continues to operate its Emergency Operations Center line for county-related questions at 828-771-6670. Residents can also email helene-info@hcem.org.  

ALL customers still need to actively conserve water. The utility continues to work to restore pressure and refill our reservoirs, Hendersonville Water & Sewer needs all its customers to conserve water. Specifically, this means avoiding washing cars, pressure washing and other activities that go beyond typical individual water use for drinking, bathing and sanitizing.  

Unnecessary uses of water being observed in the community hinders the utility's ability to restore water pressure and get service restored to normal conditions for everyone.  

We know there’s a lot of cleanup that needs to be done, but let's find ways to help each other get our systems back to full strength first.  

POST STORM SAFETY REMINDERS 

• As Duke Energy and its contractors continue work to restore power across Henderson County, assume all downed power lines are live. 

• Many traffic lights in the city and county are still without power; when traffic lights at an intersection are out, drivers should treat it as a four-way stop. 

• Unplug electrical devices and turn off your main breakers if your home has experienced flooding or been impacted by the storm. Never use wet electrical devices! 

• Use flashlights instead of candles when the power is out. If you must use candles, NEVER leave them unattended! ️ 

• Be cautious around damaged buildings. Storms can weaken structures, so avoid entering buildings that might be unsafe. 

• Carbon Monoxide Dangers: Never use gas or coal-burning equipment like grills, generators, or heaters inside your home, basement, or garage. Keep them outside and at least 20 feet from windows, doors, or vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. 

GARBAGE & DEBRIS COLLECTION 

The City of Hendersonville is requesting residents to place their garbage and recycling carts out to the curb/street for collection. We are suspending enforcement of the rule for carts to be removed from the curb/street within 24 hours until further notice. We will not be on our regular collection schedule due to the storm. We will be collecting extra bags until further notice, but all household garbage must be placed in garbage bags (no grocery bags please).  Please do not put any construction or demolition materials in with the household garbage.     

If your carts are missing or damaged, please email jdcase@hvlnc.gov.  We will get them replaced as soon as we can.  If you don't have a cart, please place your bagged garbage out to the curb/street for collection.  If your recycle cart is missing, please hold that material until we can replace your cart. You can haul your recycling to the Henderson County Recycling Center for free.  The address for the Recycling Center is 265 Convenience Center Drive. The center's hours are 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Saturday.  For Convenience Center Rules and Regulations, please refer to their web page at Convenience Center (Recycling) | Henderson County North Carolina (hendersoncountync.gov) 

Information on brush collection/vegetative debris, construction and demolition debris will be announced at a later time. 

10/1/2024 2:00 PM

We need our residents’ help! As we work to restore pressure and refill our reservoirs, Hendersonville Water & Sewer needs all its customers to conserve water. Specifically, this means avoiding washing cars, pressure washing and other activities that go beyond typical individual water use for drinking, bathing and cleaning.  

• Because of these unnecessary uses of water being observed in the community, it is hindering our ability to restore water pressure and get our service restored to normal conditions for everyone.  

• Without the active help of our residents and businesses to conserve water now, the City will be forced to implement mandatory water restrictions. This is a step we absolutely want to avoid, but need our residents’ help to do so.  

• We know there’s a lot of cleanup that needs to be done, but lets find ways to help each other get our systems back to full strength first. 

 9/30/24 1:00 PM

WATER UPDATES: 

We have additional information and updates on the Hendersonville Water System. First and foremost, we appreciate the conservation measures being taken by customers who have water. Your sacrifices are helping us restore pressure and refill reservoirs with the ultimate goal of returning water service to all our valued customers.  

What you need to know about water right now:  

Currently all Hendersonville water customers remain under a system pressure advisory. Portions of the water system are experiencing outages and periods of low pressure in the distribution system.  

Once an account owner’s water service is restored, customers who have electric or alternative power are advised to boil all water used for human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above. Interruptions of water service require the issuance of a System Pressure Advisory. 

Our partners at Henderson County have tirelessly worked to establish resource hubs at various community locations to distribute bottled water. If you are in need of bottled water, we recommend you obtain it at these hubs as well as the many organizations throughout the community who are stepping up to provide assistance. 

Water restoration updates: 

Crews have made great progress in accessing flood damage at the Water Treatment Plant and due to their efforts, the plant’s ability to treat water has almost returned to pre-storm levels.  

There are still multiple line breaks and leaks throughout the distribution system. Crews are making good progress in assessing damaged lines and infrastructure, although some areas of the County are still posing challenges in terms of access. Staff are continuing to assess the situation and are evaluating locations where water is being lost in the system, and working to isolate them.  

We are aware that portions of the system, including communities in the Fletcher area, Edneyville and areas east of I-26, and Saluda are without water. As the repairs are made and reservoirs fill, the utility will begin bringing sections of the system back into water and repair line breaks. 

It will take time to bring the system back to normal levels and distribution ability. Staff are prioritizing areas with the highest number of impacted customers and critical public health and safety customers. We are pleased that due to the around-the-clock work of our staff, we were able to restore water service to our local hospitals early in the recovery efforts. 

At this time, general questions related to recovery efforts can be directed to the Henderson County’s call center number at 828-771-6670. 

Customers who are fortunate enough to have water are asked to conserve water for only essential uses until the system can be repaired and water restored to all customers. 

PUBLIC SAFETY: 

As Duke Energy and its contractors continue work to restore power across Henderson County, assume all downed power lines are live. 

Many traffic lights in the city and county are still without power; when traffic lights at an intersection are out, drivers should treat it as a four-way stop 

CITY OFFICES: 

The Hendersonville City Government Offices are closed until further notice. 

The City Council will hold a Special Called Meeting on Thursday, October 3 at 5:45 p.m. on the 2nd floor of City Hall at 160 6th Avenue East.  

SANITATION: 

City of Hendersonville Public Works will begin collecting solid waste and recycling today throughout the day. Collection will not follow the regular schedule according to customers’ assigned pickup days. Customers may put their solid waste and recycling carts on the street and crews will note their locations and collect as they are able. Excess residential garbage in tied and secured bags placed next to carts will also be collected with no additional fees.  

Organized brush and debris may also be left by the curb, though storm debris pickup is not guaranteed. Henderson County and the City of Hendersonville will provide additional storm debris information as it is available. 

Garbage and recycling should be left on the street until they are picked up, as collection will not be running on the typical schedule and the city is suspending typical rules on leaving carts on the street outside of normal collection times.  

Brush and debris should be kept away from cans and any hazards, such as downed power lines. Items placed near hazards will not be collected. 

DONATIONS: 

https://visithendersonvillenc.org/helene-relief

 We remind you that 911 should only be used for emergencies. 

The Henderson County Emergency Operations Center Phone Number can be called at 828-771-6670 for information and resource connection. 

Henderson County information is available at https://www.hendersoncountync.gov/em/page/emergency-information  

City specific information is available at www.hvlnc.gov/helene  

9/29/24 6:30 PM

Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. We want to assure you that your safety and recovery are our highest priorities. Henderson County, the City of Hendersonville and partnering agencies are continuing to complete rescues and are mobilizing all available resources to support our community during this challenging time. 

The following response efforts are underway: 

• Emergency Services: Our first responders are actively completing rescue and recovery efforts. Please stay home if you can to keep roads clear for these efforts and as utility crews work to restore critical services. 

• Resource Hubs: Henderson County and partners are in the process of standing up six resource hubs stationed throughout the County. Details will be announced as soon as the centers are ready.  

• Utility Restoration: Crews are working around the clock to restore power, water, and other essential services. Portions of the Hendersonville water system are experiencing outages and periods of low pressure due to damage. Crews and treatment plant operators are working around the clock to identify line breaks and make repairs. Customers should use bottled water or boil water before consumption. Fortunately, many of our customers still have water service, but we ask them to conserve and use only for essential needs.  

• City of Hendersonville Offices are closed on Monday, September 30.  

• All special events are suspended during the State of Emergency.   

• City of Hendersonville residents – garbage, recycling and brush collection is currently suspended due to crews completing critical infrastructure tasks.   

• We remind you that 911 should only be used for emergencies 

• The Henderson County Emergency Operations Center Phone Number can be called at 828-771-6670 for information and resource connection. 
   

Our emergency management teams are working tirelessly to continue rescue operations and provide resources. We know this has been a devastating event, but we will make it through this together. Check on your neighbors, know that additional resources are coming, and we are here working alongside you to restore Hendersonville and Henderson County. 

9/28/24 1:30 PM

Critical City of Hendersonville infrastructure at the Water Treatment Plant and water distribution system have been impacted by Tropical Storm Helene.  

The following update is provided to customers on Hendersonville’s water system:  

Portions of the water system are experiencing periods of low pressure and outages in the distribution system. Periods of low or no pressure in the distribution system increase the potential for back siphonage and introduction of bacteria into the water system. Interruptions of water service requires the issuance of a System Pressure Advisory. 

When water service is restored, consumers who have electric or alternative power are advised to boil all water used for human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above. 

When water systems experience low pressure or loss of pressure, there is an increased risk of contamination. This does not mean that the water is contaminated, but that the possibility exists, and customers are notified.  

9/25/24 2:30 PM

City of Hendersonville Event Cancellations and Preparations in Anticipation of Tropical Storm Helene

Tropical Storm Helene is expected to bring heavy rainfall, dangerous flooding, and strong wind gusts starting Thursday and continuing into the weekend. Based on current predictions, residents should prepare for the potential of catastrophic flooding. Those who live in flood-prone areas, and even areas not typically impacted by floodwaters, should pay attention to the forecast and be ready to move to higher ground if needed.

In response to the forecast, the City of Hendersonville has issued a Level 2 Flood Alert. City crews are staging barricades in flood-prone areas, and additional preparations are underway to ensure public safety.

Event Cancellations

In response to the anticipated extreme weather, the City of Hendersonville has canceled all special events occurring this weekend, including the Hendersonville Farmers Market and Art on Main. The City prioritizes the safety of the community, and cancellations aim to limit unnecessary travel while allowing public safety and public services personnel to focus on emergency response and recovery efforts.

The Laura E. Corn Mini-golf course located at Edwards Park will also be closed on Friday, September 27, and Saturday, September 28.

Preparing for the Storm

Residents are urged to take steps to prepare their homes and families for the approaching storm. Key safety tips include:

Stay Informed: Sign up for local weather and City of Hendersonville alerts at www.hendersonvillenc.gov/alerthvl or text AlertHVL to 226787.

Plan Ahead: Ensure you have enough food, water, medications, and other essentials to last at least 72 hours. Charge cell phones are charged and have a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand.

Prepare Your Home: Clear downspouts, drains, and ditches to prevent flooding, and secure outdoor items that could be blown away by high winds.

Travel Safely: Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades—Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Citations may be issued for individuals who ignore safety measures, endangering themselves and emergency responders.

For additional information and links to additional preparedness resources, visit www.hendersonvillenc.gov/flooding.

9/25/24 12:30 PM Preparedness Message / Flood Level 2

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch and tropical storm watch for the Hendersonville area. Based on predictions for Tropical Storm Helene’s impacts, our area should prepare for the potential of catastrophic rainfall flooding. Excessive runoff may result in significant and damaging flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Areas that are not typically impacted by floodwaters may flood. 

View the National Weather Service conditions and predictions. 

Significant flash flooding and mainstem flooding is likely Thursday into early Friday, especially along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. 40-50 MPH wind gusts will be associated with Helene as the storm tracks just west of the County Warning Area Thursday night into Friday morning. The combination of saturated soils and strong wind gusts will result in numerous trees down, leading to numerous power outages. Numerous landslides may occur across the mountains, with a couple of large, damaging debris flows/slope failures. An isolated tornado or two can’t be ruled out during this event as well. 

Based on the current situation and the forecast, A Level 2 Flooding Alert has been issued by the City of Hendersonville in preparation of the weather event.  

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepare as Tropical Storm Helen approaches. Now is the time to check your emergency plan and emergency supplies kit and take necessary actions to protect your family and secure your home or business.  

Stay Informed:   

-Pay attention to emergency information and alerts.  
-Sign up for local weather alerts and City of Hendersonville alerts by visiting www.hendersonvillenc.gov/alerthvl or texting AlertHVL to 226787     

Plan:  

-Ensure you have enough food, water, medications and other essentials to last at least 72 hours  
-Keep cell phones charged and have a battery powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries on hand  
-Communicate plans with your family members ahead of any emergency  
- Flood Preparedness Guides: Visit www.ready.gov/floods for detailed guides on how to prepare your home and family for flood risks.   

Prepare:  

-Prepare your home by clearing downspouts, drains and ditches to prevent flooding  
-Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could get blown away by high winds  
-Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle  

Stay Safe:  

-Never drive into flooded roadways or around barricades – Turn Around, Don’t Drown!  
-If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, plan to move to safe shelter on higher ground  

Public Works crews are placing barricades in flood prone areas and City departments are making preparations ahead of the weather event. Motorists are reminded to ‘Turn Around Don’t Drown’ and seek alternate routes of travel if they encounter a flooded roadway. Citations can be issued for drivers who ignore barricades and put themselves, others, and emergency responders at risk.  

Additional information on flooding resources and frequent flooding street closures can be found at www.hendersonvillenc.gov/flooding