Weathering the storm: Triangle events brace for tropical storm Helene's impact

The annual IBMA World of Bluegrass festival, set to take over downtown Raleigh, is no stranger to weather-related challenges.

Two years ago, organizers were forced to move festivities indoors due to Hurricane Ian’s approach.

This year, Tropical Storm Helene is prompting similar preparations for both the festival and other Triangle events.

“If there’s anything threatening to the people, they will not run,” Loretta Byrd, Benson Chamber of Commerce said.

Loretta Byrd from Benson Chamber of Commerce spoke about weather impacts at Benson Mule Days.

“If there’s anything threatening to the people, they will not run,” she said

Last year, what was supposed to be four days of free fun turned into a revised schedule due to Tropical Storm Ophelia, resulting in financial losses.

“We had to refund money for the rodeo and vendors,” Byrd said.

Meanwhile, in downtown Raleigh, IBMA World of Bluegrass events like workshops and festivals are proceeding as scheduled.

Back in 2022, WRAL reported when Hurricane Ian forced the festival indoors at the Raleigh Convention Center.

The festival’s executive director emphasized their resilience, saying,

“We are a rain-or-shine event, having weathered two hurricanes, a global pandemic, and numerous thunderstorms.”

As for high school football, some schools are moving their varsity games to Thursday to avoid heavier rain later in the week.

Event organizers are closely monitoring Friday and Saturday forecasts, with decisions expected soon