Asheville, NC, isolated by flooding. Latest news about electricity, cells and more

Communities across western North Carolina are recovering after strong storms, heavy rains and severe flooding hit the state, leaving “biblical devastation,” authorities said.

Tropical Storm Helene swept across the region on September 27th, causing massive power outages, dam and reservoir failures, and countless fallen trees. Widespread disruptions in cell service and impassable roads left people cut off, disconnected or trapped in their homes.

Within Asheville city limits, a curfew is in effect from 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Authorities are advising residents to stay off the roads as much as possible and conserve fuel.

Here’s what you need to know about Asheville after Helene’s devastation:

How extensive is the storm damage in Asheville?

While downtown Asheville, the largest city in western North Carolina, was not as badly affected by the flooding in Helene, the city of 95,000 was largely without power, cell service and water as of Sunday afternoon. Most shops, restaurants, hotels and businesses are closed.