FlowCore Predictions of Floodwater Depth and Property-Level Damage from Hurricane Helene in Asheville, NC

FlowCore Predictions for Asheville, North Carolina from Hurricane Helene

FlowCore predictions of floodwater depth and property-level damage for Asheville, North Carolina resulting from Hurricane Helene.

On September 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall near Perry, Florida, as a powerful Category 4 storm. Rapidly intensifying, Helene brought record storm surges and high winds across Florida’s Gulf Coast. As it moved inland, the storm’s winds diminished, but the moisture maintained. In Western North Carolina, heavy rainfall—exceeding 30 inches in some areas—led to catastrophic flash flooding and widespread damage to infrastructure, including roadways and reservoirs.

The storm’s impact was unprecedented, with some areas experiencing conditions worse than a 1-in-1000-year event. In addition to extensive property damage, the storm caused major disruptions to power, water, and internet services, as well as loss of life.

Helene was likely intensified by climate change, with rising sea temperatures and increased capacity for moisture. Rainfall may have been as much as 10% higher and winds 11% stronger as a result. It is estimated that climate change caused a 50% increase in rainfall during Helene in parts of Georgia and the Carolinas.

Recovery is underway, with FEMA providing extensive support through programs like Serious Needs Assistance, housing aid, and disaster assistance for businesses. Communities continue to rebuild with resilience in mind, as the long-term effects of such extreme weather events underscore the urgent need for adaptive strategies.

Using our FlowCore technology, Synthetik can rapidly generate predictions of flood height and structure damage for events like Hurricane Helene, providing insurers, emergency managers, and governments critical insights for decision-making.

To learn more about FlowCore and other catastrophe models, contact info@synthetik-technologies.com