First look: Ashe County's small town of Lansing hurting from Helene flooding

Helene’s devastation was widespread, reaching many western North Carolina communities, including the small town of Lansing in Ashe County.

Residents on Tuesday told WRAL News the draw to living in a place like Ashe County is the isolation from a fast pace of life. For those who live there, the isolation now feels more like an island, with community members banding together to help many businesses flooded by Helene.

The flooding was so severe in Lansing partially due to the Big Horse Creek, which overflowed into businesses, blowing out windows and knocking down trees.

Shelby Tramel purchased the Old Orchard Creek General Store less than a year ago, telling WRAL News it was her dream to own a bustling community center. That dream turned into nightmare on Friday when floodwaters rushed in.

“Within a matter of minutes, the water was waist-deep inside the store,” Tramel said.

On Monday, Tramel took WRAL News on a tour inside the store, which is now torn down to its studs.

A tape measure used to measure water damage shows the water reached just shy of 5 feet inside the store before it receded.

Tramel said her dream of owning the general store has not died — it will just take a while to come true again.

“You’d be seeing a very beautiful space full of just artisan goods and artwork,” she told WRAL News on Tuesday, describing her store in its former glory.

Another Lansing resident, Ruth Henson, estimates the water reached 8 feet in height.

“It’s a very helpless feeling,” Henson said. “You’re standing there. You’re watching it, and there’s nothing you can do.”

Henson said she turns to her faith at a time like this, showing her tattoo, which reads, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.”

Several people in Ashe County told WRAL News they feel forgotten as word spreads quickly about the flooding in the Asheville area in Buncombe County. Lansing is roughly 150 miles northwest of Asheville.

Some supplies and aid have been received, but like many mountain towns, residents are still waiting on relief.

WRAL News has a guide to help western North Carolina residents recover from Helene.

By calling 211 or visiting nc211.org, families and individuals can obtain free and confidential information on health and human services and resources in their community. People trying to connect with family members can call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state. People can also call those numbers to report missing loved ones.

Helene coverage across western NC