The NC High Country has bounced back from Hurricane Helene, which hit the area on September 27, 2024. We are so grateful for the outpouring of concern for our town and our community. Blowing Rock was incredibly fortunate through the storm, and our neighbors are now open and welcoming visitors as well! Learn more about local recovery and how you can help those in need.
Hurricane Helene Impacts:
Updated Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Town of Blowing Rock infrastructure is undamaged and operational. All Blowing Rock businesses are open, and all utilities are restored. Roads in our area are safe and open for travel. Local businesses are open and eager to serve and visitor support is vital to their survival. Western North Carolina needs you!
Closures
Blowing Rock attractions are operating on normal schedules. Nearby NC State Parks have some trail and campsite closures- check ahead with individual parks before visiting. Some Blue Ridge Parkway areas will be closed for some time, though the motor road and trails are open in the Blowing Rock area.
Getting Around
Travel on main routes and major secondary routes is open. Check ahead confirm the status of routes for more remote activities. Twenty miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway is open near Blowing Rock (weather permitting). NPS warns that visitors should be aware that trail trail conditions can’t be guaranteed and caution should be exercised when hiking.
Areas to Avoid
All High Country towns are welcoming visitors!
The spirit of the NC High Country is strong, and we stand together in support of those affected by this storm. We are deeply grateful to all those helping western NC- Thank you.
If you are visiting soon, we urge you to visit thoughtfully and keep a few things in mind. For more on how to visit thoughtfully, see our tips here!
Local Updates
Follow these accounts and local news sources for updates about Hurricane Helene impacts on our immediate area:
Watauga County Emergency Services on Facebook
High Country Press– local news
Watauga Democrat – local news
Where to Donate Funds
These are some of the organizations are coordinating drives for monetary donations that will stay in the community and NC for Hurricane Helene relief. Follow these links to donate or to learn more. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list!
Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
Build For Good Foundation (Venmo: @Build4Good)
Appalachian State Disaster Relief Fund
Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
NC Hospitality Workers Relief Fund
Southern Smoke Foundation (Food & Beverage worker relief)
Official Donation Drop-off Sites
Please coordinate donations with local non-profits and volunteers, potentially with organizations listed above.
Volunteer Opportunities
Explore Boone is maintaining an excellent Volunteer Opportunity list- see it here!
Please coordinate with organizations BEFORE traveling and do not self-deploy without connecting with an organization that is providing services.
Those wishing to volunteer can also register at nc.gov/volunteer to be connected with a NC Volunteer Organization currently active in Helene response.
Recovery Assistance
How to apply for FEMA assistance for homeowners
How to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance
WNC Strong: Helene Business Recovery Fund
NC Hospitality Workers Relief Fund
Southern Smoke Foundation (Food & Beverage worker relief)
Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund
