Asheville, North Carolina, September 12, 2025
News Summary
FEMA has approved an additional $12.9 million for 45 recovery projects in North Carolina in response to Tropical Storm Helene. This funding is part of a total reimbursement exceeding $161 million, demonstrating the government’s commitment to support local communities. Buncombe County received $2.6 million for emergency measures. Individuals and businesses must apply for assistance by February 6, amidst ongoing financial challenges from property taxes on damaged properties.
Asheville, North Carolina — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved an additional $12.9 million in reimbursement funds for 45 recovery projects related to Tropical Storm Helene, significantly aiding the ongoing recovery efforts in the state. This latest allocation brings the total recovery reimbursements for North Carolina to over $161 million in the past two months, emphasizing the government’s commitment to assist the affected communities.
The funding is instrumental for various local governments and organizations, with Buncombe County receiving particularly notable support. The county has been awarded $2.6 million for emergency protective measures and facility repairs to help restore essential services disrupted by the storm. Additionally, the city of Hendersonville received $924,000 for similar emergency measures.
Other allocations include $889,000 to the Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministry Inc. for repairs to damaged facilities and contents, while the town of Burnsville was granted $829,000 to establish temporary water intake systems. These funds come from FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, which covers at least 90 percent of eligible costs for disaster response and recovery, enabling local entities to re-establish critical infrastructure and services.
Since January 20, nearly $322 million in Public Assistance reimbursements have been approved to support North Carolina’s recovery from Tropical Storm Helene. Claims for assistance from local residents and businesses continue to be submitted, reflecting the extensive impact of the storm. As of now, 86,945 individuals in Buncombe County have registered for help through FEMA, while approximately 4,928 businesses statewide have applied for assistance.
The FEMA assistance application deadline is set for February 6, prompting individuals and businesses affected by the storm to act quickly. The North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program has also been established to assist individuals and households through the recovery process. Affected residents can reach out by calling 844-746-2326 or completing an intake survey on the North Carolina Department of Public Safety website to start their recovery assistance journey.
Despite these efforts, ongoing challenges persist. Property owners are facing financial burdens due to property taxes on damaged properties, as state laws do not allow for waivers or exceptions for natural disasters. However, adjustments to property values for tax assessments will be made for buildings that remain damaged as of January 1, 2025, providing some relief for affected homeowners and business operators.
The allocation of funds and support services highlights the commitment of both federal and state agencies to assist communities as they recover from the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene.
Key Recovery Statistics
- Total FEMA reimbursement to date: $161 million
- Recent FEMA funding approved: $12.9 million
- Individuals registered for help in Buncombe County: 86,945
- Businesses applying for FEMA assistance: 4,928
FAQ Section
What is the total amount of FEMA funding approved for North Carolina recovery from Tropical Storm Helene?
FEMA has approved over $161 million in total reimbursement funds for recovery efforts related to Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina.
What assistance is available for residents and businesses affected by the storm?
Residents and businesses can apply for FEMA assistance, with the application deadline set for February 6. Additionally, the North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program is available to assist individuals and households through the recovery process.
How much of the costs does FEMA cover?
FEMA covers at least 90 percent of eligible costs through its Public Assistance Program for disaster response and recovery efforts.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UNC Asheville Students Receive Resilience Grant Funding
United Way Allocates $4 Million for Housing Support After Tropical Storm Helene
Urgent Call for Federal Aid in North Carolina Post-Hurricane Helene
Buncombe County Commemorates One Year Since Hurricane Helene
Asheville Opens Applications for Event Support Grant
Community Protests Evictions of Hurricane Helene Survivors in Asheville
Restoration of Recovery Funding for Hurricane Helene Victims
Asheville City Council Approves Major Infrastructure Recovery Projects
Governor Stein Announces Recipients of North Carolina Award
Asheville Completes Restoration at Riverside Cemetery After Hurricane Helene
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
