Haywood County looks back at Helene, Fred to plan for the next disaster

Hurricane Helene may not have been so devastating for Western North Carolina were it not for the half foot of rain that dumped on the region just ahead of Sept. 27, 2024. Getting ahead of what promised to be a monumental disaster, on the afternoon of Sept. 26, only about 12 hours before flooding began in some WNC communities, the National Weather Service office in upstate South Carolina issued the following statement: 

Koonce receives ‘Heroic Hands’ award

Haywood County Emergency Management Officer Zack Koonce has been named a 2025 recipient of the “Heroic Hands” Award, presented by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners. The award recognizes outstanding public servants across the state who exemplify dedication, courage and commitment to their communities. 

Haywood County takes stock, plots post-Helene recovery

Solid numbers on damage from Hurricane Helene are finally coming into Haywood County, along with a state plan to repurpose federal funds that will help speed recovery. 

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