**FEMA Distributes Over $12 Million in Disaster Aid to Buncombe County Residents**

In Buncombe County, FEMA has provided crucial assistance in the wake of recent disasters, approving over 14,000 applications and dispersing more than $12 million to residents. County Manager Avril Pinder announced that as of Saturday morning, 74,293 Duke Energy customers remain without power. Residents are urged to stay informed about power outages.

Food and water distribution sites remain open until 7:00 p.m. or until supplies run out, and residents are encouraged to bring containers to refill water. "This is a long road, and FEMA will be with you every step of the way," said FEMA team leader MaryAnn Tierney, highlighting the ongoing nature of the recovery efforts.

Tierney reported that statewide, FEMA has approved over 27,000 applications, providing over $27 million in assistance. Specifically, in Buncombe County, the relief efforts have been substantial, addressing immediate needs and offering displacement assistance for those unable to stay in their homes.

The assistance available to undocumented immigrants is limited, but households with a legal permanent resident or citizen may be eligible. Tierney stressed the importance of registering to determine eligibility on a case-by-case basis.

Efforts include over 1,300 emergency responders from across the United States, including the Fire Department of New York, assisting in Buncombe County, and over 3,000 federal personnel deployed across North Carolina.

County health official Jessica Silver advised residents to ensure the safety of their water wells if they were flooded or damaged during the storm. Detailed guidance for disinfecting wells is available on the county’s website. Silver also recommended creative water reuse methods to cope with potential water shortages, such as using dishwater for toilet flushing.

Restaurants are stepping up by offering free meals to those in need. Environmental health staff are working diligently to ensure food establishments can reopen safely, with inspections starting on October 4.

An online tool has been launched by the county to help residents report storm-related issues through geotagged photos, aiding emergency services in providing timely and accurate responses.

Lillian Govus from the county's communication department emphasized the importance of this tool in addressing urgent needs such as blocked roads, landslides, and the need for evacuation or supplies. Residents can access this tool to help streamline emergency response and support efforts.