In some places, the National Park Service said the damage is “catastrophic.”
Southwest Virginia Flooding
Recovering from a devastating flash flood
Hikers warned to stay off Appalachian Trail as damage from Hurricane Helene is assessed
The U.S. Forest Service closed down more than 90 miles of the trail in Southwest Virginia. Trail managers urge hikers to avoid much of the trail in Virginia.
Martinsville sends post-Helene love south of the border
Water, food and other supplies are being delivered to hard-hit areas of North Carolina.
Forest Service closes Mount Rogers, portion of Creeper Trail to address flood damage
The Clinch Ranger District and the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area could remain closed through Oct. 1, 2025.
Update: Montgomery County boil water order extended for another week
The New River Valley Regional Water Authority serves 11 separate water systems that provide water to at least 50,000 people.
Declaration opens door to federal aid for homeowners reporting Helene-related losses
The White House declared Virginia to have sustained a major disaster, which means residents of some localities can start applying for individual assistance from FEMA.
Getting money to rebuild after Helene could take months
The state budget includes $26 million for disaster assistance. However, that money is not available for disaster recovery for individuals. Virginia’s two senators called for additional federal aid.
Multiple state parks, nature preserves closed due to storm damage
Grayson Highlands and Hungry Mother are among those scheduled to reopen later this month. Others, including New River Trail and Seven Bends, are closed until further notice.
Southwest Virginia farmers pick up the pieces after Helene
Farmers and local officials report numerous washed-out roads and bridges, wrecked barns, waterlogged crops, downed trees and destroyed fences.
As floodwaters recede, residents of Damascus assess their future
A tally of damages is still underway, but much of the small Washington County town bears the marks of the storm that pummeled Southwest Virginia late last week.

