Our tiny town of Bat Cave, N.C., was devastated by Hurricane Helene. But we will find a way to vote – for our neighbors, community and country.

Experts have warned that state residents with private wells should boil or test their water before drinking it.

Biologists and other experts are still struggling to reach areas of western North Carolina wrecked by storms to assess the damage. Some are facing Helene's effects on their own lives. But as early appraisals of the disaster begin, one outcome is clear: Some stretches of habitat in western North Carolina could take decades to recover.

Ahead of Election Day, canvassers knocked on voters’ doors in Ashe County in storm-ravaged Western North Carolina.