The Appalachian State University in Boone and the UNC Asheville communities are continuing to recover from the catastrophic effects of Helene. Both universities are trying to return to normalcy quickly and safely.

When Helene tore through western North Carolina, both schools shut their doors and canceled classes. The storm caused power, water and internet outages at both campuses. Each university has dealt with downed powerlines, fallen trees and blocked roads.

Here are the latest updates from the chancellors of each university:

Appalachian State University

Earlier this week, Interim Chancellor Heather Norris, Watauga County, the town of Boone and the Boone Chamber collectively decided to resume classes on Wednesday, Oct. 16. The university will resume its Adverse Weather Condition 1, reduced operations, on Friday, Oct 11.

The university said its Academic Affairs Office is ready to work with each student to ensure they are successful, especially those preparing to graduate in December, Norris said.

Students, faculty and staff who need financial assistance due to lost or damaged housing, missed work, missing items or other impacts from Helene are encouraged to visit the Disaster Relief Hub at Plemmons Student Union, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the chancellor said.

Local leaders ask parents and family members who are helping students return to campus to make the trip a day trip, Norris said. The local hotels are for essential personnel and people who have been displaced because of Helene.

For more information, please visit the Office of the Chancellor’s webpage.

UNC Asheville

UNC Asheville will remain under Adverse Weather Condition 3, campus closure, until at least Oct. 21, according to a message from Chancellor Kimberly van Noort. Classes will not resume until at least Oct. 28.

On Tuesday, van Noort expressed her concerns for the campus’ students, faculty, and staff. Several people have still not reached out to the university so they could know they are accounted for, the chancellor said. This may be because some people don’t have power, internet and water services, she said.

For more information, please visit the UNC Asheville Bulldog Alert webpage.