PHOTOS: Biltmore Estate flooding, ‘extensive’ wind damage after Hurricane Helene

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — Management from Biltmore Estate shared an update Thursday to show the conditions at one of the most famous tourist destinations in the state.

Water and wind damage were widespread at the estate and Biltmore said it tragically lost a few of its animals during the storm. The vast majority of the animals, however, did survive.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of concern for our region as communities face the aftermath of this storm,” the update read. “Like all of this region, the damage varies by location across our 8,000-acre property.”

“The entrance to Biltmore, located in Biltmore Village, and other low-lying areas of the property, such as our farm, experienced significant flooding and damage to buildings.”

Throughout a large portion of the property that is forested area, estate management said wind damage to the grounds and some structures was “extensive.” Crews have been at work to clear the roads to make way for repairs to begin.

While there is still damage being assessed on the estate grounds, Biltmore said the conservatory, winery, gardens and hotels had minimal or no damage from the storm.

When will Biltmore reopen?

While management said its priority remains with Biltmore staff and the communities affected by Helene, they did say swift recovery plans are being worked on.

As these plans are worked out, Biltmore leaders said they are “looking forward to welcoming our guests to this region as soon as it is safe to do so.” There is no exact timeline on when that could be.

“We appreciate your patience as we work to repair our internal technology network and communication systems,” the estate’s update said.

Until further notice, all of Biltmore remains closed to the public. In the meantime, the estate has established this page on their website for updates after Helene . It includes helpful information for anyone looking for how to support communities in the region or for anyone needing cancellation and refund information.

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