Swannanoa River devastation in Asheville - Hurricane Helene aftermath

[@MarkHuneycutt]

A lot of people have been asking how they can help. Here's what I saw October 1st: I think the area is starting to get saturated with very legitimate help. I'm not sure how many more hands on deck are needed but I could be wrong. Water is the obvious thing needed since water systems have been compromised/contaminated so if you can find a reputable organization to donate to for water and food, that's a good idea. I was in Swannanoa this morning - they were hit HARD. The river swept through there killing people, reducing homes to rubble, and destroying businesses. I saw random people there just setting up tents with water, food, coffee, snacks. I think that's a great idea as people are in clean up mode, exhausted, sad and they need these things - they can't get these items anyway because maybe their car was crushed, their road is washed out, power is out so grocery stores are closed, etc. People need fuel for their generators (lines are hours long at the stations that are open). There are communities stuck on top of mountains due to their only line of access being completely destroyed with no hope of it being fixed anytime soon. They're requiring air drops and rescues and these guys seem to be doing a good job if you'd like to donate - Aerial Recovery Group (links below). I hiked about 6 miles into Bat Cave yesterday heading towards Chimney Rock. I'm not sure what they need because it's gone but like everywhere, they need food, water, gas. I'm hopeful that this whole community evacuated as there is just zero access to Chimney Rock/Lake Lure from the NW anymore. Downstream to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, it's just a mess. I haven't physically seen it because I couldn't get there but I've seen videos. The clean up is going to be enormous. I do know that helicopters are heavily flying here due to no access so once again, Aerial Recovery and other organizations actively flying there need help (they're actually flying to MANY mountaintops within a couple hours). Wellness checks in the region are a good idea. A friend sent me www.unitedway.org/ as a way to sign up to do wellness checks if you're local. I'm not sure how that organization works but it's an idea. You can also look in forums and see people asking about specific addresses. Crazy thing is, this is just a few communities. Asheville, Hendersonville, Burnsville, this whole region, needs assistance. People are coming to help in big ways now, though. I met a group down in the river today from Myrtle Beach, a search and rescue team. I talked with some Cajun Navy people on side by sides today. The more the merrier. Aerial Recovery Group: secure.givelively.org/donate/aerial-recovery/2024-hurricane-helene-disaster-response Instagram: instagram.com/aerialrecoverygroup?igsh=MTM2eGY1bXFxcnh6Ng==

[@zachbynum5914]

I have a skid steer. Do you know anyone I could get in contact with that would need my help?

[@artcflowers]

Hey Mark. Thanks for the info and footage. Did your hangar make it through or did it go downstream?

[@JonathanAbsher-w1m]

I am thinking of retiring there Sincerely yours Jonathan Absher

[@JonathanAbsher-w1m]

Can you go to Saluda North Carolina if possible?

[@donaldcurtis9229]

Why aren't these big corporations donating water and supplies to these poor people David billions of dollars off the American public

[@luckyotter623]

I live in this area. It's just heartbreaking and surreal. Mark, your footage is far superior to anything I've seen on the mainstream media. Please never stop making these videos. The world needs journalism like yours.

[@TheOutdoors87]

We pray🙏🙏 for you and your family and everyone who's affected Bij this terrible hurricane greetings from portugal

[@nancyciao7701]

Be safe out there ❇️

[@joegerhardusa9017]

Hendersonville didn't get nearly hit as hard as this except in a few areas.

[@techlady01]

As a retired reporter, I have rarely seen such excellent coverage as yours. You never sensationalize or exaggerate. Where the police block the roads, you turn around, so you don't create more problems for them. You provide as much coverage as you can without violating privacy. Good job.

[@SkadooHusky]

I often get recommended motorcyclist like this by KZbin. The motovlogging format just seems to work well for stuff like this.

[@W.R._Arms]

Please don’t stop making these videos. It is more important than any of us realize right now. These are historical. You’re writing history bud. Keep doing Gods work. Be safe and stay strong, people are counting on you.

So true... and also remember the Democrats have sent 200+ Billion dollars to Ukraine in the last 3 months alone and they will spend almost nothing here on Americans...

[@brymakore7557]

❤

[@JakeStarAstrella]

You are doing what our own mainstream media no longer does. All they care about is making Democrats look good and making hard working honest American people look bad, saying we are all a bunch of 'racists' or whatever the current democratic establishment lies and misinformation propaganda narrative is.

[@susanlong8978]

I agree. Main stream Media is basically useless.Your making a difference and bringing us Truth. Thank you for THIS ❤

[@WhitneyNewark]

Filming where water used to be located is now “Gods Work” 😂😂😂 seek therapy!

[@j.a.greene3523]

I currently live in Asheville. Drove by the same area myself. It’s much worse in person, but this video is as close as you can get being there. Thank you for posting.

[@thewintergardener2873]

I lived and worked in Asheville in 91/92 and loved it... I'm seeing Swannanoa got hit hard... There used to be a little restaurant I loved going to called the Swannanoa Diner --- Hope they made it through.... Heartbreaking.

[@mrpapakc]

I hope your property wasn't damaged in Asheville!! Love this area. I am in Charleston SC, this is so sad to see....

[@Jill_K_S]

Is the body count what they say? Is the government hiding things?

[@harryd9579]

Make sure you and your neighbors vote in November.

[@nicholaslangille6636]

It looks apocalyptic

[@janyager2854]

This is the saddest thing I've ever seen. Heartfelt prayers for everyone. Thank you for your real-life journalism, Mark. You have compassion and heart.

[@SB-ey5yd]

I heard this one guy say, "i know how to build a house. I dont know how to build ground." Broke my heart. 😢

[@freezingcathedral]

you kind of just pack it in there.

[@SuperReznative]

​@@freezingcathedralPray to Jesus) God for help.

[@ronbelanger4113]

@@SuperReznative No, only sending more cash works.

[@TheMiracle2017]

I'm from the TN area that got hit bad and a lot of people are coming out of retirement to help the community. My father is a carpenter and has been helping everyone he can the best he can. Retired electricians are coming out and helping, unpaid, just to get these people back up and running! It's going to be a long process to rebuild but there are some amazing people in those communities that will give their blood, sweat, and tears to help whoever they can. ❤❤

[@BCNomader]

@@SuperReznative Wasn't is god who sent the storm? You know, act of god, lol

[@benjaminnichols6558]

I'm not saying to exactly use it for your benefit but you should do some longer format videos. Take the money it makes to help you and your community. If you posted a 25+ min video of your day I would watch every single one. Clearing roads, walking down the river bed, anything really. You're one of the only people I can find doing a good job and documenting this.

[@VikingShelters]

I agree... haven't seen footage of this nature anywhere else.

[@Shalommaranatha7]

Same here, I would watch everyday. I already have my bell set to announce your video uploads. No one else is showing this content. Just brief snippets.

[@HAS1278]

I agree, it’s heartbreaking to see the destruction but hopeful they get the assistance needed.

[@thooks1234]

He won't see money from GOOG/KZbin for quite a while. Months, at least. Even then, it's going to take millions of views and hundreds of thousands of subscribers to see a real impact of money from videos.

[@YetiRoofing]

totally agree.

[@Yellowlab247_Outdoors]

Absolutely unbelievable. Our church has been sending loads as hard and fast as we can. We are convoying up another 4 trailer loads tomorrow. Thank you for sharing this from the inside

[@patrickharris8220]

It’s heartbreaking to think that there will probably be a large number of lives that were lost that will never be found. Prayers to all affected!

[@Starfish2145]

So far, it’s almost 150 people. Probably be higher

[@katz20200]

I fear that as well, Patrick. The coming weeks & months will reveal more & more tragic stories. Utterly heartbreaking.

[@JACKTOTTER]

Fu ck you and your prayers, help them, donate money to the organizations that are helping. I have donated over 1k

[@egsunblazed]

@@katz20200 It will be near the thousands. Yes, asheville lost lives but just think for a minute on where all that water went... Black mountain, Swannanoa, Montreat and beyond. Complete towns and roads wiped out.

[@SuperReznative]

​@@katz20200There was lithium deposits&quartz for computer chips.Mining wanted the land ,the people resisted..so....get rid of the resistance..most don't have flood insurance.This could be a land grab scheme.Help these people, similar to real estate in Lahina...peeps said no thanks...and got burned out

[@jeffwisemiller3590]

The more I see, the more I'm reminded of the Japan earthquake tsunami. The force & the volume of water just removed EVERYTHING! Godspeed on a very long road to recovery.

[@josephastier7421]

The damage in the hardest hit areas is similar. Buildings floated off foundations, wrecked vehicles piled up in drifts.

[@AtomicHog]

Excellent job getting these images out to the world, Mark.

[@Koonhunter]

I assume the government still hasn't done anything to help

[@Petalflipper]

@@Koonhunter The governments been doing plenty to help, and has been confirmed to be helping by the local governments. Stop believing every bullshit conspiracy you've been brainwashed to believe.

[@Nina_6621]

Unless you've seen our area, you have no idea how beautiful it was! Heartbreaking 😢

[@unapologeticallyauthentic]

It was!! I lived in Hendersonville. 💔💔💔

[@unapologeticallyauthentic]

Were you affected

[@unapologeticallyauthentic]

Either way I'm so sorry for you!!

[@Nina_6621]

@unapologeticallyauthentic We are in east tn. Actually very lucky & blessed! Thank you for asking! So many are devastated. My heart is breaking.

[@unapologeticallyauthentic]

@Nina_6621 I lived in Cosby right by Gatlinburg. The town we shopped in was Newport. Then left there and moved to Hendersonville, NC. Then on to ohio. TN will always be home for me!! We dodged many bullets!! I'm so glad you're ok!!

[@jonathonspears7736]

Thank you for sharing. This coverage is much better than news coverage. The damages will likely take years to repair. Prayers out to all those effected

[@jnharton]

It should be obvious how hard it would be for the "news" to properly cover the story when nobody could get in or out of some places by automobile. Nevermind that the locals clearly were in no position to be reporting on their situation unless doing so would expedite help arriving.

[@regould221]

The news media doesn't care about rural America.

[@stanleystrycharz2572]

​@@jnharton The "News" doesn't want to cover it because the current administration is so inept. They offered $750. To anyone affected by this while putting $4500. A month on debit cards handed out to illegals. Vote wisely this November folks.

[@richarddouglas1712]

I don't believe anything you just said ! There are helicopters national guard that could be reporting back! Instead we have to see this on KZbin! Taking care of the rest of the world is more INPORTANT..😢​@@jnharton

[@tachiebillano6244]

Filipino here. To anyone who thinks nobody outside of that area knows much about the devastation - actually, a lot of us outside the United States are aware of this because, yes, various international media outlets are indeed covering the general story.

[@tonyblake7318]

But no help though right? Everybody has their hands out to the US but they are all crickets now. I can't hear anything.

[@CountryMouseCityCrimes]

@@tonyblake7318 Buddy this is how half of us or more feel in America. Whenever these things happen in Red States your hands come out.... the accusations fly.... the abuse hurled. But when it happens to say New York or California it's "we're not helping you socialists." You're harvesting the fruits of your labor. As for some of us.... you can't even STFU and just let us live our lives in peace. Accuse us of disgusting things. So this is what it is. For anyone trapped in these areas who don't fit in ideologically.... I do wish I could help those people get out.

[@katenoke1571]

​@@tonyblake7318you're not listening, then

[@BanBanChi]

@@tonyblake7318 dozens of countries are sending assistance to the US. I lived in Asheville all through the 90s and live in Japan now and there are rescue teams being sent plus supplies. The US rejects all assistance that comes from other countries' military and it's American media policy to not report when other countries help the US because it goes against American exceptionalism.

[@thooks1234]

The mainstream US Media IS NOT COVERING THIS.

[@MegNotTheStallion]

We are mountain people and we are strong. WNC strong. You're showing everyone the true devastating impact of Helene in our mountains. The news is underreporting

[@raymondnavarro50]

I just can't believe what you guys are going thru. My memories from 1986 in Chimney Rock and Bat Cave are immense beautiful. I took my then young bride in the 80s and thereafter my 3 kids in the 90s and later my 2 grand kids in 2005. Your area was my area of pleasure for 40 plus years..... I bought and sold a cabin on Shoumont Rd in Bat Cave. I just can't believe what im seeing..... man I'm praying for you.... I just can't imagine what you guys are going thru... keep the faith... you will clean up and the roads will be rebuilt and the beauty will come back. Wao my kids and grand kids are shocked with what you have shown us on this video.... God bless dude and hoping the strip of the Chimney Rock strip of gift shop can come back. I'm shocked from the images I'm seeing.... we love you .... prayers sent from Miami Fl.

[@katz20200]

I lived at the bottom of Shumont Rd in the early 1980s. Prior to that I had lived in Lake Lure. Many ties to Hickory Nut Gorge. I am very sad about this devastation & hope there were successful evacuations.

[@ChaosEarth-p8i]

thats really touching. Hope they are alright

[@coachwendy5618]

​@katz20200 Lake Lure was unbelievably devastated from the footage I saw earlier this week. I stayed at an Airbnb in Shelby a few years ago and am amazed at how much damage has been done to an area that is not familiar with hurricane forces. I live on the East Coast where we run to the store every time there's a hurricane forecast potentially heading our way because we deal with it frequently. I pray people come together and help each other get through this. We had to do this to recover from Isabel and Irene around twenty years ago and I saw it bring people closer together that were willing to work together.

[@briancarroll8382]

We’ll probably never meet Mark but know people are praying for you and your community. People can’t truly fathom the depth of loss you all are experiencing. Thanks for helping and showing even a glimpse of what you all are experiencing so more of us can know how to help and what to pray for. Proverbs 3:5&6

[@janebeatty9472]

Unfathomable destruction. The economic toll to these families and to this area will be for years. I am lucky. I have friends whose loved ones are safe. For those who are missing or those who have lost loved ones, we see you and we send what donations we can. Also, we cannot possibly feel the depth of your loss and sorrow but hope our thoughts, prayers and ongoing support carry you through.

[@wendyb457]

Thank you Mark. You are getting more information out right now than any major news source! Please keep going as long as you are able. God bless and stay safe.

[@americanrn125]

This is rural America, where helping each other comes naturally. God Bless you all, my heart breaks for you ❤

[@melodiefrances3898]

Hate to burst your bubble, but unfortunately there has been some ugly behavior.

[@coachwendy5618]

​@@melodiefrances3898that always happens when people are stressed. If it's people who were in need, those helping them need to have patience and understanding. I've been the person helping others in need and also a recipient on occasion. I'm not sure who you're calling ugly, but sometimes people don't deal well with loss. If scammers, then you're probably right. There will be plenty of those who take advantage.

[@patriotsunited2006]

​@melodiefrances3898 yeah and its all coming from the government not the people effected.

[@rickbeal1544]

And fema is trying to stop it.

[@americanrn125]

@@rickbeal1544 That’s why it’s more important than ever. It’s always the people, not the government that solves ANY problems. If there’s any lesson to be learned from the past 4 years, it’s that the government will not be working in our best interest, so DO NOT COMPLY!

[@2Hearts3]

This is some of the most beautiful scenery in America. Even in its devastated state, broken and strewn, the mountain vistas and lush forests show the special place it is. Please God, bless these suffering people with healing and homes 👑✝️🕊️♥️🙏

[@One-Day-After-Another]

Being from Brevard originally... It was locals... then tourists... then people who moved there because they loved it...different accents ... I waited tables years ago at a restaurant and even the wait staff were from all over the country....with a few locals. Something about that area draws people to it... Susan , A friend from Maine who lived there... we talked about that and she seemed to think it was a magnetic center or something. I don't know...All of my family in Brevard are all OK..thank God. I was so worried the first few days I couldn't get through to any of them.... a lot of these devastated small communities I've never even been to...except Chimney Rock... This is my guess: We always had heavy rain events with maybe 8 to 12 inches of rain...and the usual areas would flood... I think that's what everyone thought this would be like... I would have thought the same... Not having a clue it would rain 20 to 30 inches

[@barbrice721]

She is Beautiful. And Wild. And Broken. It makes me cry. 😢❤ Thank You.

[@mojorising1]

​@@One-Day-After-Another we call it God's country. The saints are drawn up to the mountains because this is where God created everything on Earth.

[@2Hearts3]

@@mojorising1 "I shall lift up mine eyes to the hills from whence cometh my help." 👑✝️🕊️♥️🙏 Come, Lord Jesus

[@cherylcbutmck7384]

The government will cover this up, just like always..

[@julieh3365]

I am out of words. Mark, you have always been a helper and I couldn't be more proud of you. Please be safe. We need you.

[@thelegion_within]

it's nice to see that people are starting to get help over there - the helicopters, folks coming in from out of state to help, etc. thanks for bringing awareness with your videos!

[@rmeadowbird2722]

Thank you for this journalism, Mark. There are many ways to donate and be of help popping up for all of us out here to help however we can. Deepest sympathies for the profound loss on so many levels, not the least of which is the growing number of lives. Praying for the safety of those who are still waiting to be rescued.

[@jasonkierstead2964]

Mark Huneycutt putting a little honesty back into real journalism! Keep E'm coming!🇺🇸

[@FadedRoseStoriesFairyTales]

Thank you! Please keep documenting as you can. You do a good job.

[@supernatural802]

The devistation is unbeleivable. This so much worse than i thought. Im just in awe of the shear power of all that water. I lived in ashville for a short while its such a beautiful place. Godspeed.

[@luxborealis]

I’ve lived over in Norway a while and we have this sort of flooding pretty regularly here. It is crazy the damage it can do. Sometimes you think you dodged the worst of it by having a home on a hillside, then in reality the flooding has washed away the soil underneath, and the ground slowly crumbles upwards until suddenly a couple blocs just collapse into a mudslide as all the houses slide downhill towards the flood or ocean, to be swallowed up. Since this can happen hundreds of yards away from the flooding area sometimes this is even outside the mandatory evacuation zones, meaning people might be in the houses.

[@brianbuckner1787]

Bless you brother!~ for telling the story, comforting those caught up in worry and for sharing your kindred spirit with those in need.

[@wg5331]

The day creeks became rivers and rivers wanted to become lakes. God speed to you all there. My parents are in Morganton and I was so thankful they text me a few days later that they were safe.

[@Always_sojourning]

Amazing video documentation. From someone who lives in Florida And has personally been witness to what these storms can do, The level of destruction for people who have never been through this type of storm is incomprehensible. You are giving people. A perspective. Be safe.

[@krazedvintagemodel]

Thank you for showing this damage up close. Our nation needs to realize the extent of the destruction in this region.

[@Jordan-u8k8v]

Man this really is devastating and my heart hurts for everyone hit by the waters. It’s making me re thinkin even the vehicle I own myself. I couldn’t get around if I wanted too in my eclipse in that high water. Thank you so much for the video!

[@posteroonie]

Thanks for your reporting. This is a useful on-the-ground tour. Helicopter shots are useful but your video gives more depth.

[@Somee989]

Thousands of us are here and ready to help. I am in Greeneville and no water but have electric. Gathering up blankets and canned goods for drop off. Good folks hurting real bad.

[@nowistime8070]

there has got to be 1000's dead from this. It's like the tsunami footage. this is heartbreaking. thanks for sharing this with us. its important

[@Peculiar_Optics]

Yes they are not telling the real numbers of dead, this was unexpected so I would say all the houses and cars swept away by the river had people in them they will be finding bodies for months just such a horrible tragedy.

[@ITL1377]

They’re not lying or withholding that info. How could you conduct a head count at this point. Many people alive during 9-11 often forget that initially they expected 50,000 casualties from the twin towers because there was no way to know exactly how many people were in those buildings. The final number was still awful, but my point it yes the body count will be high and more accurate in this as time goes on.

[@paulherbert5548]

Thinking the same. Utter devastation.

[@paulherbert5548]

@@ITL1377 I'm sure many are buried in the debris.

[@flyonthewall8122]

​@@Peculiar_Optics There's no way to know at this point. Also, many people are trapped with no internet & can't get the word out that they're okay.

[@semperfi6801]

Keep sending updates Mark. I love how you get out on your motorcycle and make your way through as many areas as possible.

[@yevgeny79]

Not a single news van or a national guard truck in sight. Thank you sir for doing this service for your community.

[@bruceperkins2921]

they been ordered to stay away. everythings fine nothing to see here

[@cm1642]

Because they are where people have gathered, which only makes sense.

[@AARon11414]

@@cm1642 yeah they’re holding down the fort super well over at the LuluLemon, and shutting down local church operations from helping people who really need food and water security, some with north of $300,000 worth of donations that get to sit in an account while FEMA furloughs aid. I get the legal side of FEMA, but if they’re gonna force others out of helping, it would sure as shit be nice if *they* at least knew how to help us. Local and State responders have done way more, and out-of-state State Troopers and Firefighters who are here know to ask locals for direction and input on what we need. Source: I live in Asheville

[@PisgahGravelProject]

Local to the area. Thank you for documenting this event. We were trapped at home for a couple days, cut our road out and jumped on the adv bike to check neighbors. Made a run to roseboro, edgemont area one day and then Wings, ledger area between sprucepine and Bakersville to deliver food water, dogfood, oxygen tank, inhaler and baby formula. Crews are working to make a temporary road over the creek but it takes time and just getting equipment there is proving to be extremely tough

[@bernierowe1936]

Those poor people were and are completely overwhelmed! Who expects something as tragic as this? My heart aches for these victims 💔 😢! GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!❤

[@maddie690ify]

I live near Perry, FL where Helene made landfall at 11pm. Been here for 37 years. This was the scariest hurricane that I can remember.

[@pleiadesluciernaga8877]

I’m so sorry. I grew up in Madison, Co. Lots of damage there. Heartbreaking.

[@maddie690ify]

@@pleiadesluciernaga8877 Thank you. It's going to be a long time before we are back to normal.

[@steventurner9098]

This storm was manipulated using HARP technology to cause maximum damage inland. I have lived on the Gulf Coast in Florida for 65 years , witnessed many hurricanes. This is not normal.

[@maddie690ify]

@@steventurner9098 I've heard many people say this in the past few weeks. I've never heard of that before.

[@Not_actually_a_commie]

@@steventurner9098You’re right, it isn’t normal. HARP ain’t got shit to do with it though; this is the world made by climate change

[@beachgirl1947]

I moved from beloved Asheville 6yr ago. I am heartbroken at this unbelievable devastation. I can’t get through to friends; desperately worried for them & all others.

[@waynemoenkhaus486]

@beachfirl1947 Is there anyone locally you’ve contacted with names, addresses etc?

[@Robbie-mw5uu]

a friend of mine said power is being restored today so try again

[@ZENmud]

There have been many Facebook posts suggesting contact via several "Ashville locals" groups on that social media site. If phone lines or cell towars were knocked out, it may be weeks (few? several?) to reestablish networks.

[@iownadodge7081]

THANK YOU SO MUCH for ALL you do! 🙌👍❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@dawnofthewalkers4915]

Times like these where I wish I was filthy rich so I could just throw money at helping all the people affected by this disaster.

[@markandrews6054]

Yep me too.

[@DT-dv6wf]

Government is, oh wait they through the $$ over sea,s.

[@biffmalarkey]

I remember seeing a video a while ago where the person was trying to visualize how much money Jeff Bezos of Amazon has. He did it with grains of rice and gave one grain of rice a value of $100,000. Jeff Bezos pile of rice was something in the neighborhood of 58lbs of rice and the stack was huge. Some people have so much money they don't know what to do with it except buy more mansions around the world and build ever larger luxury yachts. Sad really!

[@LovinLnCottage]

@@DT-dv6wf What about our own billionaires who hoard money , have gold toilets and send rockets into space? See anybody but Taylor Swift leaping forward to help? Stupid!

[@BabsKaz]

Where's Elon? 🤔

[@Sunbeammicrogreens]

Thank you for this video. I used to live in this area and to see what has happened has broken my heart to pieces! My prayers to all affected. God bless you! 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@canyoncajun]

Great job showing everyone what's going on down there! You're a good dude

[@chrisbischoff3476]

Thanks so much for taking this footage. Seeing this firsthand from your eyes is extremely important. I believe your videos will literally save lives. Please keep this footage coming.

[@ZPDSurvival]

I am sharing your channel on my channel. I think this opens the eyes of more people about what is going on there. I visited the whole region last Spring because I love the Mountains, but as we know. It can be very dangerous. excellent work.

[@SimplyJanHomestead]

Thank you my friend! I shared this out too! ❤

[@WhiteTrashGalDottie]

Thank you for reporting on this. Unimaginable devastation. 💔

[@morphamorpha6194]

Watching your videos brings back a lot of memories for me. When I was a small child, during the early 1960s, the area where I lived in the Coast Ranges of Northern California, went through something like this. We lived 2 miles south of Leggett, California, a tiny town of less than 300 in Mendocino county. Leggett was completely isolated for more than a month due to washed away and slid away roads and bridges in all directions. Military helicopters landed on the school grounds, bringing in supplies and evacuating stranded folks. Nobody died in our town, but people we knew lost their homes. We were okay, we had a well, and after downed trees were cleared off of the roads, we were able to get into town and get supplies, so we were able to stay put. My Mother had photography equipment, so she took lots of photos of damage in our area, and set up a darkroom in our kitchen where she was able to develop film and picturess, many of which were used by regional newspapers. Once the storm passed, it all seemed like a great adventure to me. My heart goes out to you all that are experiencing this. Thanks for your great quality documentation.

[@bartosullivan8050]

Never dreamed I would be seeing this on your channel.. The destruction is hard to watch and can only imagine what it's like for you seeing your community just gone. Great work . Stay safe. From an admirer in Murphy.

[@berlin1926]

Amazing work, Mark. I've shared with the New York Times. Keep sharing!

[@johnjacobjingleheimerschmi3857]

Thank you... I've been following alternative media and this footage shows me that it's far worse than I imagined... Lord have mercy... Prayers from East Tennessee.

[@Nikkiet100]

I can’t really express how heartbreaking this is to know and see, so much loss on so many levels. My dad lived in Asheville for the last 33 years of his life, and my daughter lived there the first eight years of her marriage. I’ve always loved it there and all the surrounding areas, including where you filmed. There was such a natural beauty there. right now. Looks like a war zone with mud. I’m so sorry for everything that everyone there is having to endure. May you stay safe. Thank you for showing us all how bad it really is.

[@flierbill]

Thanks for letting us know. So sad.

[@kylelaw7210]

This video does a better job showing the damage than any other I have seen

[@cathycarris3273]

Thank you for making this! I hope it's ok I shared it- giving you credit. People need to know more than what they are seeing on the news, which it isn't enough. I'm a 1990 Grad of Brevard College. Love that area.. still have friends down there. Truly devasting..

[@nickhildabridle1612]

Thank you for sharing these images. I can not even imagine the difficulty you are experiencing. I am just at a loss for words and send you good vibes for the most difficult road you have ahead of you.

[@01ZO6TT]

Thanks for an eye opening video. I knew it was bad but seeing videos of it is truly sad. God bless everyone who is affected by this.

[@kenwheeler3637]

Thanks again for these videos. I have not driven out to Swannanoa since the disaster. I knew it would be bad and this truly confirms it.

[@john-martin]

I don't know why this isn't all over the news. This is crazy

[@senoJSR]

because the media is propaganda

[@nubianking4203]

Because the media and elites hate rural America

[@ShrimpinAintEasy]

because it would make it hard to justify sending more money to the other side of the planet

[@reneeegner7927]

@@ShrimpinAintEasyand troops!!!!!

[@barppoots4378]

It’s been all over KZbin for days. The media terrible. I don’t watch any major news channel

[@MR-ph2do]

🙏 for posting. Utter devastation and loss of lives. We're in Sandy Mush. We were spared. Our hearts are breaking for our fellow communities. ✌️

[@justgoman8172]

I have a number of friends in the mush and they are okay too. Glad to hear yall did okay. The spectrum of damage from this storm is very large.

[@DavidNCPPG-1962]

Wish I knew what to say, but I just don't have the words. All I can do is give to help. There are several relief collection areas in Durham, one is right across the grocery store I go to, Food Lion, on Hillsborough Rd, in Durham. I'm buying water and donating it. Wish I could do more. Thanks for the info on the Aerial Recovery group, I'll see what I can do there. Thanks again Mark, thanks for putting this out there. I hope it encourages other to reach out, as it did me.

[@bonespiel]

Thank you for sharing this footage with us. This again brings me to tears. The loss is overwhelming to me beyond what I can express in words here.😢

[@CR-he5zx]

Greenville has been collecting goods at GMU that are being delivered via helicopter, fixed wing, and truck. I know other small general aviation airports in the area are doing the same.

[@katannyaalven1087]

Thank you for posting, Such shocking devastation. My prayers, love and thoughts go out for all the people in all these communities. especially those who lost family and friends.

[@mopazo7]

Prayers for all those affected. I visited Asheville a few years back and fell in love with the area, so beautiful, peaceful, serene and gentle. The devastation is unbelievable, apocalyptic to say the least. This was as bad as Katrina, I just wonder how much warning did people get? Very scary what's going on in the world. Thank you for reporting, stay safe.

[@arresthillary9502]

weather service was warning for a week about the hurricane. these towns flood all the time in the mountains and especially during hurricanes, but this was a big one

[@mopazo7]

@@arresthillary9502 Thank you for the clarification.

[@shoechew]

I got the creeps from Asheville. It was a wicked place.

[@rvpark8327]

Thank you so very much for all your footage so this devistation and the people arent neglected/ignored.❤

[@liliasquier9032]

Thank you so much mark ,the News are not showing anything, iam so sorry that this happened, prayers for north Carolina.

[@Holabirdsupercluster]

What news are you watching? Because I read the New York Times and the Washington Post and both of them have run dozens of deeply reported stories about the storm and the aftermath. It seems like you just have a narrative you want to push that is unconnected to reality.

[@shirleymurphy1958]

Prayers for all who are giving and lending their hands too the communitys in their great need.

[@marco114]

I am impressed how quickly people are cleaning up.

[@Robbie-mw5uu]

It only took 6 years for Hiroshima to be cleaned, utilities restored, and public transportation functional after the atomic bomb. Humans are very strong.

[@Whorulesnow]

Everyone that is interested in your videos should download them. Mark you are doing a great service for your community and your country. We are all connected. Thank you.

[@roadpizza3470]

Love and strength to all of you!!

[@holleighlordel1575]

The mud. I just can’t imagine the whole world covered in inches or feet of mud and dirt. I’m so sorry your wellness check had a bad ending. And her husband is still in the creek somewhere. 😢 just heartbreaking. That’s a lot to process. I hope you are taking good care of yourself so you can continue to help others.

[@roxannemirchell9920]

Prayers and keep doing this as we need updating. News is not showing us

[@deetrvl4life875]

Bless you, you’re doing a good thing documenting all.

[@AM-qz6cm]

A lot of people will never be found, I think. What devastation. God be with you fine people. Thank you to all those involved in the rescue/recovery/support. Thank you Mark for these videos/images.

[@mamapillow8365]

Thank you so much for your video. This is heartbreaking and the world must see what's going on.

[@machinist44291]

Prayers for everyone there. 🙏 God Bless

[@Turbo_Tastic]

thanks Mark, always interesting videos, and presented in your soft spoken kind hearted manner

[@TheBaroqueprincess]

A family member said the Swannanoa river sounded like an ocean. We were just in Swannanoa for our annual visit in August. It’s unrecognisable now. Very sad. That wellness check sounds very upsetting. Take care and thank you for filming these clips.

[@michellebilodeau3882]

My heart just breaks for these poor souls . I pray for them.

[@Tom-jf4vg]

My prayers go out to the family's whom are in need. Thank you for sharing.

[@JDfromPhilly]

Watching the news here in Philly and it’s barely being covered. Our fellow Americans need a lot of help!! Our government needs to step up like never before. Sending billions to Ukraine! Need that money and tons of people to help!! I pray for all of you and truly sorry for all of your suffering, especially to those who died in this horrific tragedy. Prayers from my family to yours. God bless

[@JDfromPhilly]

@@IlluminatingJules61284 I truly don’t know. But all of those affected by this storm need all the help they can get.

[@suebarnes8212]

Just stop! Ukraine has nothing to do with this!

[@EdwardM-t8p]

So many cars, pick-ups, minivans, SUVs, semi trailers and even the occasional semi-truck. Where are the people who drove them!? 😮😦😧😨😰 Horrible. Just horrible. 😔

[@Pieguy73]

Everything is peachy where i live. Watching your vids just tells you that your life can be upended at any momment. Long recovery for you all. This is heart breaking.

[@barbarac4138]

You can tell hours of manpower went into just clearing the path you drove on

[@lcphoto6847]

Thanks for keeping us posted and your support for to getting the town back to normal. 🙏

[@BrittanyHavener]

Ohio, Maui, here… 🤔 strange stuff.. absolutely devastating and everyone just keeps living like nothing happened or is happening. Praying for everyone who’s been impacted. Heat breaking ❤😢

[@chrismaverick9828]

Shock is almost always the first response. After that you have two choices: 1: Break down and do nothing. 2: Establish goals, prioritize things to achieve them, and get to work. Rural America is, by nature, hardworking. With supplies coming in and paths being cut through the debris, cleanup can begin.

[@sc147]

1st one was Paradise CA few years back

[@trishanderson1505]

@@Plutogalaxysome call It conspiracy and others call It facing the truth.

[@sc147]

@Plutogalaxy many things that are called "conspiracy theories" turned out to be facts. the time between "this is a wild conspiracy theory" to "oh sh..t, his IS true" has shrunk from years to months nowadays.

[@PiperbonesJ]

The Federal Government Response and the help pouring in from other states and other counties is truly impressive. Kinda shows what is possible when we're all on the same team. Thank you, President Biden for the rapid response to all affected areas and the first responders who are likely dealing with loss in their own neighborhoods and communities. Keep up the good work.

[@thewatchmen4920]

Thank you for what you are doing 🏍️💨💨💨💨

[@celticmermaid2974]

The devastation is just so massive. My heart is breaking over and over. We, here in Florida were massive areas hit and others missed. It's just so hard to see even more destruction up there. I'm just numb. I am thankful to you, my friend for taking this footage because it is the real thing. You are doing the best coverage I've seen of that area. I'm praying for everyone and those still lost.

[@pamelabrumfield7679]

Praying for all of you! Such devastation!! I dont know how you function! 😢😢❤🙏🙏

[@elirenigar9357]

Thanks for making vids of this. People need to see it.

[@tinkertailor7385]

Yeah. It's certainly a bit of a mess. Looks like everyone is getting on with the job of getting it sorted though. It's amazing how resilient people are when disaster strikes. It'll bounce back. Doesn't look like in now, but it will.

[@cheddar2648]

Thank you for covering Swannanoa. I was worried about them and Black Mountain because there were no reports, and as Asheville is capturing a lot of attention. Everyone up there needs help, not just the big city.

[@heatherm2428]

There are over 100 Airmen, and 4 helicopters sent to help with the rescue from Davis Monthan AFB in Tucson Arizona on Saturday, but the bureaucratic tape has prevented these dedicated Airmen from helping. They left their families to help fellow American families and yet their skills and equipment are not being used. These young men and women hunger for the opportunity to help, yet they are sitting and waiting at the McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in Knoxville. It hurts knowing that people need to be saved by their aircraft and knowing that their hands are tied.

[@karenfaries5056]

Lord I pray for all of them to be able to go...go now in Jesus Name 🙏🙏 ...

[@heatherm2428]

@@karenfaries5056 I wish I knew why they are not being utilized. This is what they train for. This is what they dedicate their lives to. It is heartbreaking because people need them.

[@MaximusXXX77]

If this is true it's maddening and eerily similar to the fact that 700 TN national guard were just deployed to Kuwait!

[@Starfish2145]

I just emailed the base asking what the holdup is

[@arresthillary9502]

@@Starfish2145 lol. do you think you are important?

[@marilynbowe650]

Don’t ever think this couldn’t happen to you. Mother Nature does whatever she wants. I respect her.

[@mikeinch3690]

As do I. So glad she spared me and the wife. This is our home . Asheville NC.😊❤

[@c.k.e.8554]

Mutter Erde wehrt sich jetzt gegen die verrohte Menschheit

[@MfConnor]

It doesn't help when people interfere with mother nature and it gets away from their control.

[@kaitlynwinder3030]

I’m so thankful there are people like you up here that made it through okay and are now able to spread awareness. The level at which our government has downplayed this tragedy is sickening people don’t even realize how bad the damage is but thanks to people like you they can!! I’m from Brunswick county NC we got flooding with 22” of rain that took out roads three weeks ago but we can barely even fathom what you are going through! Me and so many more people I know have taken upon us to gather supplies equipment and other things and bring them y’all’s way!! I want y’all to know WE SEE YALL AND STAND WITH YALL! it’s going to be hard and tough and honestly will only get worse as the weeks go on and body count goes up. But eventually things will begin to return to normal and I promise the whole of NC WILL BE WITH YALL! NC strong! Thank you so much for people like you showing these places so we know who needs aid the most,that isn’t getting it, God Bless You!

[@cliff4695]

That had to be a 50' task wall of water. You climbed that hill at the end and there was still good damage. Absolutely incredible amount of damage. Sadly, done people will never be found. Each town should raise funds for a MIA memorial of the people lost and not found