The images and stories coming out of Western North Carolina are horrifying. But we’re also seeing images that have clearly been generated by AI or that aren’t from Hurricane Helene — and fundraisers that we can’t verify. On social media, many people are sharing posts that are now out-of-date or that cannot be verified. Electricity and cell service is still really spotty and will be for some time. It’s okay to be patient and wait for vetted information.

Here are the resources we trust and are using.

Where to donate

Blue Ridge Public Radio liveblog, Instagram, and lists

The Blue Ridge Public Radio station has a number of features to help the community in both English and Spanish.

  • Liveblog: Ongoing updates about Western North Carolina communities; no paywall
  • They are answering questions from audience members and posting them on Instagram (English/Spanish)

WFAE (Charlotte) is also providing extensive coverage.

Official .gov websites

NCDOT

North Carolina Department of Public Safety

Coastal Emergency Risks Assessment

College information

Mel is a journalist and librarian. Outside of work, she volunteers as a reading tutor at Carrboro Elementary School, writes about journalism for a variety of publications, and serves as chair of the OWASA...