Helene’s devastation was widespread, reaching many western North Carolina communities, including the small town of Lansing in Ashe County.
Residents on Tuesday told WRAL News the draw to living in a place like Ashe County is isolation from a fast pace of life. Those who live in Lansing said the isolation now feels more like an island, with community members banding together to help the many homes and businesses flooded by Helene.
People are using ATVs where roads are impassible, washed out or simply flooded, heading up and down the mountains, bringing supplies to neighbors farther away from where supplies are stockpiled.
Justin and Jeremy, who did not want to give their last names, said, “It’s our day off, and we just wanted to help.”
They loaded supplies – everything from water to medicine – onto an ATV and, guided by Ashe County Sheriff Phil Howell, made their way …