Highlights
- Biltmore Estate flooding causes closure until at least Oct. 15.
- Biltmore Village was severely damaged by floodwaters from the Swannanoa River.
- Over 150 fatalities were reported across the Southeast U.S. following Helene.
- Tourism and local businesses around Biltmore face economic challenges due to closures.
- Visitors can request refunds or reschedule their Biltmore visit once reopened.
After Tropical Storm Helene swept through the Carolinas, the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, has temporarily closed due to widespread flooding.
While the extent of damage to the iconic mansion remains unknown, the nearby Biltmore Village faced severe floodwaters, with buildings and roads heavily impacted.
Severe Flooding Hits Biltmore Village
Biltmore Village, a historic shopping and dining district located near the estate, experienced significant damage as floodwaters surged from the Swannanoa River.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the river swelled to 26 feet on Friday, far exceeding the 18-foot threshold for major flooding.
This flood level led to devastation across the village, with shops, restaurants, and local businesses facing severe damage.
Biltmore Estate Closed Until Further Notice
While the 250-room Biltmore mansion itself remains closed, the estate has issued a statement saying it will remain off-limits to the public until at least October 15 due to road closures, power outages, and ongoing flooding concerns.
Employees are advised to stay home unless directed otherwise, and pass holders, as well as club members, cannot access the grounds during this period.
Visitors with day passes are encouraged to reschedule their visit once the estate reopens. For those unable to visit within this timeframe, ticket refunds or exchanges can be made through the estate’s ticketing system.
Also Read: Hurricane Helene Death Toll in US Climbs to 200 as Biden and Harris Visit Affected States
Ongoing Rescue Efforts in the Asheville Area
The broader Asheville area is also grappling with the fallout from Helene. Over 150 people across multiple states have been reported dead as a result of the storm, and search teams continue to look for additional victims in the mountainous regions.
Rescue crews, including cadaver dogs, are working tirelessly to aid smaller communities that have been particularly hard-hit.
Impacts on Tourism and Economy
The Biltmore Estate is a major tourism hub for Asheville, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
With the estate closed and nearby Biltmore Village heavily damaged, the economic impact of Helene’s aftermath is expected to be felt by local businesses reliant on the area’s steady flow of tourists.
Flood recovery efforts are ongoing, and updates regarding the reopening of the estate will be provided in the coming weeks.
Visitors planning future trips should stay updated by checking the estate’s official website or contacting the ticketing center.
