Appalachian State classes canceled for several days due to Helene flooding, damage

Appalachian State University announced Saturday it will be closed for several days as the town of Boone recovers from Helene.

Helene moved through North Carolina on Friday as a Tropical Storm, with several mountain towns suffering the worst of the impacts in the state.

According to the school, classes will remain closed through Friday, Oct. 5, on both Boone and Hickory campuses, and the university will operate under an “Adverse Weather Condition 3” status.

Flooding severely damaged roadways and downs in the mountains, with parts of I-40 near the Tennessee border collapsing in a rockslide. The school said road conditions in Boone and Watauga County remain dangerous.

“As the rain slackens and waters recede, it’s important to remember that flood waters, even if they have lowered, are dangerous,” A university spokesperson said. “Creeks, rivers and ponds may look calm, but water tends to rush faster at depth. Flood waters, including standing water, can have sewage overflow. Do not attempt to enter any bodies of water.”

According to Appalachian State, roads and sidewalks in the Boone area have unstable sections, washed out areas or are structurally compromised.

“There are a number of trees and tree limbs down on campus and in the community. If you choose to leave the area, please proceed with extreme caution, and keep the roads as clear as possible for emergency response vehicles,” A university spokesperson said.

The university said non of the residence halls were structurally compromised by the storm.

In addition to campus being closed, the university said the town of Boone is under a boil water advisory in effect for residents who still have water.

The university provided tips for residents on how they can conserve their water:

• Take shorter showers and shut off water while shampooing and applying soap
• Run dishwashers and washing machines only when they are full
• Don’t run the faucet while waiting for water to cool, and use a dishpan for washing and rinsing dishes

Authorities roped off dangerous areas of Boone’s campus, with school officials saying anyone entering the roped off areas will be subject to disciplinary action, or arrest.

School officials said the residence halls, along with the central dining halls, campus markets, the student union, student health services and student recreation will remain open for students.

The school said non-mandatory employees, including faculty, should stay home, Faculty can contact the school for questions at 828-262-2070 or through email at academicaffairs@appstate.edu.

Off-campus students, faculty and staff in need of shelter should call 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767). The Red Cross is also accepting donations at this same phone number.

If you or anyone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.