Hurricane Florence Information
The Town has joined Buncombe County and its other municipalities in declaring a State of Emergency due to the potentially damaging impacts of Hurricane Florence. Mayor Goosmann requested the Town's inclusion under Buncombe County's declaration effective at midnight on Friday, September 14, 2018. The Declaration can be accessed here. The Declaration is in effect through September 20, 2018 at 6:00 pm.
Preparedness Update
Public works crews have prepared for the storm all week checking and clearing storm drains, fueling all vehicles and equipment, and are on call this weekend to respond quickly if needed. Similarly, the Police Department is preparing for the event by reviewing emergency operations plans with Buncombe County EOC, preparing road blockades/barriers, and having standby reserve officers available.
Helpful Tips
To report a water outage, Monday through Friday, 9 am – 5 pm, call Public Works at (828) 274-3919. After hours or on weekends, call (828) 274-0822.
To report fallen trees in the road or flooding, call (828) 274-0822.
To report a power outage, call Duke Energy Progress at (800) 419-6356 or text OUT to 57801.
Important Phone Numbers
Duke Energy Progress (Power Outages): (800) 419-6356 or text OUT to 57801
Charter Communications (Cable, Telephone, Internet): (888) 438-2427
Public Service Company of NC (Natural Gas): (877) 776-2427
AT&T (Telephone/Internet): (877) 737-2478
Metropolitan Sewerage District (Sewer Issues): (828) 255-0061
An important note: if you have an emergency during this storm event or at any time, please dial 911! The Buncombe County Emergency Operations Center will be fully operational and they will have quicker access to sending out exactly what service may be necessary for your emergency. Calling the local police department number for Biltmore Forest may result in an unintended or unnecessary delay in assistance.
Helpful Links
You may find the links below useful as you prepare for the storm as well. The biggest thing to remember is to be prepared. The ReadyNC website below has a guide for emergency kits and proper ways to prepare for the storm.
Buncombe County Emergency Preparedness Website
National Weather Service (GSP) Severe Weather Briefing Page
National Hurricance Center (Hurricane Florence Specific Page)
Each of the above websites should update in real time as changes are made to the modeling and forecasts for the storm. It is recommended that you also download the ReadyNC app from the Apple Store or Google Play for your mobile devices. This application will provide updated storm reports as well as road conditions and other emergency information.