Most North Carolina storm survivors have no flood insurance
Flooding Aftermath: Devastation and Uncertainty in Asheville, North Carolina
The storm of a lifetime hit Asheville, North Carolina, as Hurricane Helen tore through the region, leaving a trail of destruction and heartbreak in its wake. For one resident, Bro, the horror of watching his neighbor’s home float away and then his own home being ravaged by floodwaters was a traumatic experience that has left his family in limbo.
A Family’s Struggle
As Bro shared his story, it became clear that his family is not alone in their plight. The storm has displaced tens of thousands of people, and the Brusso family, like many others, did not have flood insurance. In fact, an NBC News analysis revealed that only about 2% of homes in Asheville’s Buncombe County had flood insurance, leaving a staggering majority of households vulnerable to the devastating consequences of flooding.
While FEMA does offer assistance to those affected by floods who don’t have insurance, the payments are typically a fraction of the amount needed for repairs. For a typical household, this could lead to financial ruin, forcing families to question whether rebuilding is even possible.
A Community in Crisis
As the region begins the long and difficult process of recovery, many are left wondering how they will cope with the unimaginable. The Brusso family’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.
Rebuilding or Relocating?
For Bro, the decision to rebuild or relocate is a difficult one. With his home ravaged by floodwaters, he struggles to envision a future in the same place. "I don’t think I’m going to come back here," he said. "I don’t think it’s worth rebuilding."
A Glimmer of Hope
As the community begins to rebuild and recover, there is a glimmer of hope. Cell service has finally begun to return, and news outlets like NBC are committed to keeping the public informed about breaking news and top stories. While the road to recovery will be long and arduous, it is clear that the people of Asheville will come together to support one another and rebuild their community.
