Jeff Watts, 57, has faced significant challenges in Asheville, N.C., following Hurricane Helene, which disrupted the city’s water distribution system in September. On Monday, he received a voicemail from city officials announcing that, after 53 days, the water was finally clean enough to drink, marking a crucial milestone for a community grappling with grief and economic difficulties.
Despite the positive news, Mr. Watts, a landscaper, expressed a subdued sense of relief as he celebrated with a beer at the Rankin Vault Lounge. His home remains destroyed, and he continues to live in a small hotel room, stating, “I got water, but I have nothing else.”
The lifting of the boil water advisory brought relief to residents who had been without drinkable tap water for two months. However, concerns linger about Asheville's ability to recover from what has been deemed the worst natural disaster in North Carolina's history.
According to reports, approximately 12,000 individuals in Buncombe County, which encompasses Asheville, have applied for disaster-related unemployment benefits. Schools did not reopen until late last month, and some renters have requested a moratorium on evictions due to widespread financial struggles.
The hurricane caused extensive flooding and mudslides in Asheville and surrounding areas, resulting in over 100 fatalities and significant damage to infrastructure. For weeks, residents had to rely on water trucks and alternative sources for their daily needs, often resorting to hiking to creeks for water.
While running water was restored in late October, it was initially deemed unsafe for consumption due to sediment. City officials had projected that it would take until Christmas to fully repair the treatment and distribution system. Many residents adapted by utilizing disaster relief sites for bathing and laundry, and some sought permission to dig wells.
On Monday, the announcement of drinkable water was met with celebration in local stores. Ben Hanna, who has been involved in distributing water through a grassroots initiative, noted that the news alleviated some concerns about waterborne illnesses.
Despite the positive development, many residents expressed hesitation about consuming the tap water immediately. Local businesses, particularly those in the tourism sector, have suffered losses due to the water crisis, with some questioning whether the return of clean water would attract tourists back to the area.
City officials confirmed that extensive testing of water samples indicated safety for consumption, advising residents with older plumbing to run their faucets before use. The city has also received numerous requests for participation in its lead testing program.
In the aftermath of the announcement, local businesses, including breweries and bars, expressed relief as they prepared to resume normal operations. Drew Hendrickson, a beverage director at a local cocktail bar, noted the excitement of being able to serve drinks with ice made from tap water once again.
As families began to return to normal routines, Mr. Hanna shared the joy of telling his young children that they could take baths at home again, a moment that brought smiles and laughter to their faces.