“Tropical Storm Helene Leaves Downtown Boone in Turmoil: Uncertainty Looms for Tourism-dependent Businesses”
As rainfall intensifies in downtown Boone, Freddie Pell is tirelessly moving vintage wooden chairs to prevent them from being soaked by the incoming rain. Inside his art gallery, muddy puddles serve as a somber reminder of the havoc wreaked by Tropical Storm Helene. The waterline, scribed as a dark mark a foot above the floor, visualizes the extent to which the storm submerged the area. Boone, a town of approximately 19,000 residents, heavily relies on tourism, particularly during the vibrant autumn foliage season. However, the aftermath of Helene now poses significant challenges for local businesses and their economic prospects.
In October, the town usually welcomes a significant influx of tourists eager to witness the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains adorned with a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. Additionally, many visitors arrive to cheer on sports teams at Appalachian State University, contributing millions of dollars to the local economy. Unfortunately, the town’s future as a tourist hub now hangs in the balance due to the devastating impact of Helene.
Throughout Watauga County, where Boone is situated, numerous households remain without power or cell service. The storm has caused roads to wash out, stranding residents or forcing them to navigate through alternative routes. Emergency service personnel have been tirelessly working to rescue those in need.
Along the highway leading to downtown Boone, fallen trees precariously rest upside down on the mountainside, with power lines sagging underneath them. Upon arriving on King Street, the town’s main thoroughfare, the dull muddy sheen on the sidewalks serves as a visible reminder of the deluge that engulfed the area during the storm. Curious pedestrians wander around, unsure which businesses are open. Many establishments remain closed, causing uncertainty regarding their reopening dates.
Fortunately, for Paul Tuttle, co-owner of the brunch spot Melanie’s, the damage to the building was less severe than anticipated. Despite floodwaters reaching the back door, a propped-up mat effectively prevented any significant water intrusion. The restaurant reopened to serve storm victims in need, despite operating without internet access and under a boil water advisory. However, Tuttle expresses concerns about the future of his café, as the coming weeks are crucial for the business’s profitability. The months between July and October typically generate the most revenue, with October being the second-best month for business. Tuttle wonders if tourists, who once sought the town’s picturesque charm, will be drawn to the area devastated by the storm.
The impact on tourism in Boone and surrounding mountain towns has raised concerns among community members. Kurt Kaunath, an Airbnb owner, dreads the increasing number of cancellations for bookings he received before the storm. These cancellations exacerbate the financial strain experienced by businesses heavily reliant on the October tourism season, which provides vital support to local hotels and infrastructure. The implications of the storm’s aftermath on the town’s economy and overall morale remain uncertain.
Lililu on King, a clothing boutique in downtown Boone, usually experiences high customer traffic during October. Fortunately, the store was undamaged by the storm. Despite the lack of internet access hindering their cash register operations, the manager, Kim Greene, focuses on aiding storm victims by packing sale items for donation. However, the reopening of the store remains uncertain, as questions arise about when and if there will be enough staff available. The store predominantly employs students from Appalachian State University, which has suspended classes until further notice. The absence of students due to their return home adds another layer of complexity to the challenges faced by local businesses.
As the campus of Appalachian State University appears largely deserted, the university’s arena now serves as an emergency shelter operated by the Red Cross. Donations pile up outside the entrance, rendering a stark visual representation of the storm’s impact. Several students, residing in off-campus apartments, find themselves homeless due to flooding. The email received by Aidan Mullane, a sophomore, indicates that classes may not resume for the entire semester. Many faculty members also face housing issues, making it difficult to manage their responsibilities.
In the wake of the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Helene, residents of downtown Boone grapple with uncertain futures. The town’s economic recovery and ability to attract tourists depend on how swiftly rehabilitation efforts take place and whether the area can regain its enchanting allure.
