Team NS' commitment to restoring service after Hurricane Helene

Last September, Hurricane Helene caused widespread damage and devastation across several states in the Southeast, with particularly severe flooding in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Even before the storm hit, hundreds or railroaders were preparing to deal with the expected damage to ensure that we could safely restore service and help our network recover.

Due to the remote nature and mountain topography of the region, coupled with the conditions following the storm and subsequent flooding, our teams had difficulty assessing damage along portions of the line around Asheville and over Black Mountain, where much track had been completely destroyed. Our initial projections estimated the line between Asheville and Newport would not reopen for months.

“Asheville is an important part of our network that experienced the brunt of Hurricane Helene,” said Chief Operating Officer John Orr. “As soon as the storm had passed, I joined our team on site to make sure that our railroaders were safe and taken care of, and to see firsthand what we needed to do to stabilize and restore the railroad. It’s what railroaders do. We’re in it for the long haul.”

Yesterday was a momentous day, as non-revenue Train 98A rolled through the River Arts District, which was completely underwater during the storm.

“This couldn’t have happened without the dedication of our railroaders who have taken great pride in restoring service to Asheville,” Orr added. “Their hard work and commitment were not only vital to our recovery but also to this community that many of them call home.”

While recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene are ongoing, yesterday’s movement of equipment highlights the capabilities and unwavering commitment of our railroaders. We truly appreciate everything they do.

Cover image: Thanks to Grady McKinley for sharing this photo of yesterday’s train through Asheville.