This weekend, Winter Storm Fern brought snow, freezing rain, and sleet to Western North Carolina, leaving more than 10,000 residents without power. If you have questions about outages, road closures, or restoration efforts, please visit ReadyNC.gov.
If you are without power, please keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Turn off and unplug appliances and computers. Leave one light on to signal when power has been restored.
- Locate your electrical circuit box and turn off individual circuits before shutting off the main breaker.
- Avoid using candles when possible to reduce fire risk.
- Do not use gas stoves for heat or operate generators indoors or in garages, as this can cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If you see downed power lines, assume they are energized and stay away. Once at a safe distance, report them to your utility provider.
Unfortunately, scammers often target communities during emergencies. Reports have already surfaced of fraudulent text messages posing as Duke Energy. Do not click links, download attachments, or respond to messages from unknown numbers, and please remind friends and family to do the same.
I am continuing to work closely with local and state officials to support recovery efforts and help our mountain communities return to normal as quickly and safely as possible. If you need assistance, please contact my office at 865-EDWARDS. My team is ready to help.
Supporting Western North Carolina Infrastructure
Last week, the House advanced a funding package to deliver essential resources for public safety, water infrastructure, and economic development across the country. Together, these measures strengthen national security, support public safety, and invest in critical infrastructure — helping our communities rebuild stronger and move forward with confidence.
As North Carolina’s only member to sit on the Appropriations Committee, I secured $13 million in additional Community Project Funding for priority infrastructure projects across NC-11, including:
- $2.5 million for a new taxiway at the Asheville Regional Airport.
- $1.5 million for upgraded water distribution lines in Graham County.
- $3 million for a new Emergency Services hub in Madison County.
- $3 million for upgraded water systems in Swain County.
- $3 million to build a new EMS base in Buncombe County.
These projects address real needs and deliver lasting benefits for our communities. The Senate is now entrusted with the final authorization vote on this funding package before it heads to the President’s desk.
Delivering Accountability for Rural Western North Carolina
I voted to advance the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations bill, which provides $26.5 billion to modernize federal operations, protect constitutional freedoms, and strengthen accountability across federal agencies.
Sixteen months after Hurricane Helene, some Western North Carolina communities still lack a functioning post office. That is unacceptable. As part of this bill, I authored two amendments to hold the U.S. Postal Service accountable for delays in reopening post offices across our region.
These provisions require the USPS to report to Congress within 90 days on plans to reopen and restore postal services in Western North Carolina and direct the USPS Office of Inspector General to submit a 90-day plan detailing how post offices closed due to Hurricane Helene will be reopened.
I led a North Carolina delegation meeting with Governor Josh Stein to review ongoing recovery efforts and discuss the work that remains.
To date, North Carolina has received approximately $7 billion in federal disaster recovery funding, with billions already obligated or distributed for infrastructure repairs, recovery projects, and direct assistance. FEMA recently announced an additional $72 million in Public Assistance funding and $44.6 million in Hazard Mitigation funding to help communities rebuild stronger and more resilient. <<160k+ homes have been replaced or repaired, 10+ private roads and bridges have been repaired, 98% of our roads have been repaired, and 95% of our businesses have been reopened.
While progress continues, there is still plenty of work left to do. I remain focused on cutting red tape, improving accountability, and ensuring Western North Carolina receives the support it deserves.
When servicemembers transition back to civilian life, staying connected to those who served alongside them can make a meaningful difference. To support that transition, I introduced the VET Connect Act.
This legislation directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to create a secure, opt-in platform that allows verified veterans to reconnect based on shared service history, without sharing personal contact information. The VET Connect Act modernizes VA services, supports veteran well-being, and puts servicemembers first.
Western North Carolina homeowners now have until January 31 to apply for assistance through the Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program. If your home was damaged by Hurricane Helene, you may still qualify — even if you have already received assistance from FEMA or your insurance provider.
To learn more or apply, visit: https://www.
