To Visit or Not to Visit Western NC

A Carolinian's Dilemma

As a long-time resident of North Carolina, the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in our western counties hits close to home. I find myself torn between the desire to help and the fear of intruding on a region still in recovery.

The Aftermath

It's been over a month since Helene swept through, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The numbers are staggering:

Over 370,000 customers were initially without power.

More than 400 roads were closed.

Nearly 200,000 people have registered for FEMA assistance.

The response has been massive, with local, state, and federal agencies working tirelessly to restore normalcy. But as I sit here in Cary, I can't help but wonder: what can I, as a fellow North Carolinian, do to help?

To Visit or Not to Visit?

That's the question that's been nagging at me. On one hand, I know that tourism is a vital part of Western NC's economy. Many businesses in the region rely heavily on fall visitors to make ends meet. By staying away, am I depriving them of much-needed income? On the other hand, I worry about being a burden. The last thing I want is to get in the way of recovery efforts or strain resources that are already stretched thin.

A Balanced Approach

After much consideration, I've come to realize that it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Here's what I'm planning to do, and what I'd suggest to others who want to help:

Check before you go: Use resources like DriveNC.gov to identify which areas are open and accessible. Call ahead to businesses you plan to visit to ensure they're ready for tourists.

Support local businesses: If you do visit, make a point of patronizing local establishments. Every dollar spent helps with the recovery effort.

Be respectful: Remember that many people are still struggling. Be patient, kind, and understanding if services aren't up to their usual standards.

Consider volunteering: If you have the time and skills, look into volunteer opportunities through nc.gov/working/volunteer-opportunities/volunteernc.

Donate if you can't visit: The North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund is always accepting donations at nc.gov/donate.

Looking Forward

As I plan my trip to Western NC this fall, I'm filled with a mix of emotions. Sadness for what's been lost, pride in the resilience of my fellow North Carolinians, and hope for the future.