“Crews have been working tirelessly to clear roads so we can begin repairs.”
Biltmore, one of North Carolina’s most historic and popular tourist attractions, will be closed until at least October 15 due to Hurricane Helene. The massive property, which dates back to 1895, suffered extensive wind damage and flooding in forested areas, its farm, and to some structures such as the entrance, according to a statement posted on Biltmore’s Instagram account.
“Like all of this region, the damage varies by location across our 8,000-acre property. In forested areas, which is a large portion of the estate, wind damage is extensive to grounds and some structures. Crews have been working tirelessly to clear roads so we can begin repairs,” the statement said.
Other areas of the property, such as Biltmore House, the winery, hotels, garden and Conservatory, received minimal to no damage, according to the statement. However, a few animals on the property died during the storm. “The vast majority are safe and accounted for thanks to our dedicated agriculture and equestrian teams,” said the estate.
“As with all of our neighbors who experienced the effects of Helene, we are working on our plans for a swift recovery and look forward to welcoming our guests to this region as soon as it is safe to do so,” the statement continued.
The storm pummeled nearby Biltmore Village, a mixed-use neighborhood with homes, shops, and restaurants, leaving more historic buildings destroyed and flooded. In an interview with 7 News WSPA, business owner Thomas Young said, “We’re pretty certain that we were totally under water, and the river went pretty much through our building.”
Although fans of Biltmore are concerned about the property and when it will reopen, representatives for the estate ask that the public focus remain “on our deeply devastated broader community.”
Sean Rayford/Stringer/Getty Images
How To Help
The American Red Cross, Mercy Chefs, North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, World Central Kitchen, and many other organizations are seeking donations to assist impacted areas. For more information and up-to-date resources on how to donate.
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