ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Tropical Storm Helene continues to impact Asheville’s waterways, including the French Broad River, resulting in extensive debris removal efforts.
“We strongly recommend that the public avoid recreating on our rivers and creeks while the federally managed large-scale debris removal effort is being conducted,” city officials said.
Hazards may still exist on and under the water, although the majority of debris has been removed.
According to city officials, the waterway debris removal operation began Feb 1. The city of Asheville and Buncombe County have ramped up the number of debris removal crews working in the waterways, focusing on the Swannanoa River, the Biltmore Village area and sections of the French Broad River, where they have been clearing various types of debris, including vegetative matter, construction materials, vehicles, appliances and hazardous waste.
“As they complete sections, they will move to other waterway sections, including several major tributaries within the city,” city officials said.
The city of Asheville and Buncombe County have been working closely with FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the state of North Carolina and the selected debris removal contractors.
Search and rescue teams documented 987 vehicles and vessels within city limits in September and October 2024.
“Titled property is currently being removed from waterways and staged right-of-way areas for towing,” city officials said.
After re-evaluation by city staff in December 2024, the number of vehicles still located in rights-of-way or waterways was reduced to 80.
Even upon the completion of the waterway debris removal operation, city officials still advise using extreme caution if swimming or boating on the local waterways.