Business Startups

Buncombe County officials are providing the latest updates on their Helene response.On Sunday, officials met in Black Mountain and said they are focusing on long-term recovery efforts. The town’s mayor said starting on Monday, monetary donations can be sent to the Black Mountain Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce. Those funds will then be dispersed to help those impacted by the storm.Click the video player above to watch the latest forecast from WXII 12 News.TOP STORIESVice President Kamala Harris promises the continuation federal assistance following HeleneTropical Storm Milton Forms in the Gulf, Expected to Impact Florida as a Major HurricaneMark Robinson criticizes Roy Cooper’s handling of Helene after Graham campaign eventGet the latest news stories of interest by clicking hereTen days into the response to the disaster that was Helene, 73,000 people remain without power in Buncombe County. On Saturday, officials announced a new online tool for residents to upload geotag photos and report any storm-related issues, such as blocked roads, landslides and requests for evacuation supplies.So far, 38 photos have already been uploaded to the site. Currently, 14 search-and-rescue teams remain in the area, and more teams are on the way. Officials are continuing to ask people who do not live in the mountains to stay out of the area to make it so crews can properly do their jobs. As search-and-rescue operations are moving to more recovery efforts, officials said they are continuing to find those who may be missing. Watch: NOWCAST streaming newscastsThe removal of debris is aimed to begin in mid-October. On Monday, officials will resume waste collection services for route customers. Household garbage will be collected where vehicles can safely access. Recycling services continue to be suspended. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office will continue to provide updates on the number of storm-related fatalities. Officials said that number is expected to rise.During the update, officials said they will be voting in the 2024 general election and more information will be available during another briefing on Monday.Keep up with the latest news and weather by downloading the WXII app here.NAVIGATE: Home | Weather | Watch NOWCAST TV | Local News | National | News We Love |