Biltmore reports wind, flood damage from Hurricane Helene

ASHEVILLE, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) — Officials with Biltmore have disclosed damages the 8,000-acre tourist attraction has sustained from Hurricane Helene.

On Thursday afternoon they reported that because of the size of the estate on the south side of Asheville, the damage varies based on the location. The property remains temporarily closed to the public.

Nearby in Biltmore Village, many roads and businesses were ravaged from flooding from the Swannanoa River.

Here is how each sector has fared:

• In forested areas , wind damage is extensive to grounds and some structures. Crews are working to clear roads so they can begin repairs.
• The estate’s entrance , located in Biltmore Village, and other low-lying areas of the property, such as the farm, experienced significant flooding and damage to buildings.
• Biltmore House , conservatory , winery , gardens and their hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm, officials said. “We sadly lost a few of our animals during the storm, but the vast majority are safe and accounted for thanks to our dedicated agriculture and equestrian teams.”

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of concern for our region as communities face the aftermath of this storm,” the estate wrote. “We appreciate your support for the many needs across the region and have shared resources on our website for how you can help.”

In the meantime, estate staff are working to repair their internal technology network and communication systems. They did not provide any kind of timetable for reopening to the public.

The Biltmore House was the home to the Vanderbilt family, prominent U.S. shipping industrialists in the 1800s. It was completed in 1895 with 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces, and opened to the public in 1930.

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