In late September of 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated the Southern US. The storm struck Western North Carolina with shocking brutality. The region was not prepared for a hurricane.
Hurricane Helene story map
In the hurricane aftermath, a group of UNCA students created a story map. They wanted to reflect on the damage and recovery efforts. They asked themselves a series of important questions. What did the storm do to our communities? Which communities were hit hardest and why? What happened to our forests and wildlife? How are we rebuilding now? Can WNC expect more storms like Helene?
What’s next?
These students did incredible work. They didn’t shrink from the heartbreak. But they also uncovered moments to uplift us. How people worked together. How we can protect the places we love. How we can prepare for the future.
Their story map reminds us why environmental justice matters.
Thank you to Matisse Araque, Justin Huffman, and Ioanna Katsigianis of the UNCA Environmental Justice class in Fall 2024. Thank you for sharing your hard work and story with us all.
