Following Helene’s devastating floods in western North Carolina, local radio stations played a crucial role in providing reliable information to residents as they struggled to recover. Calls from concerned citizens seeking information about evacuation routes and potential tropical storms were broadcast live, showcasing a sense of community pride and unity during a challenging time. The radio hosts worked to dispel misinformation, such as rumors of failing dams, and provided updates on road closures and assistance from government organizations and volunteer groups.
The oldest station in western North Carolina, WWNC, along with six other iHeart stations, came together to simulcast their coverage of the weather emergency, with host Mark Starling hosting a marathon live broadcast to ensure residents had access to vital information. With ground-based communications severely affected, the stations relied on SpaceX’s satellite internet service Starlink to remain online. Co-hosts Eddie Foxx and Ashley Wilson joined Starling in providing updates and support to listeners, emphasizing the importance of helping one another during the recovery process.
Local news outlets and radio stations in the region, including WWNC, produced essential service journalism to assist communities in the aftermath of the storm. Information on where to access essentials like gas, groceries, water, and wifi, as well as resources for missing persons and power outages, was shared via various media platforms. Listeners were encouraged to remain patient and have faith in the recovery effort, with the hosts reminding them of the collective strength and resilience of the community.
Despite the devastation caused by Helene, the radio hosts also found moments of humor and positivity in the storm’s aftermath. Foxx shared how he had connected with his neighbors for the first time face-to-face, emphasizing the importance of unity and compassion regardless of personal beliefs. The hosts joked about naming future babies after the storm and looked forward to simple pleasures like reconnecting with delivery drivers and enjoying favorite beverages once businesses reopened. Through it all, the radio hosts maintained a sense of camaraderie and determination to support their community until the recovery process was complete.
The public service ethos of the radio hosts was evident throughout their live coverage, with Starling pledging to remain on air until the last bit of debris was cleaned up and the last drop of water had dried. Residents were assured that the stations would continue to provide support and information as they navigated the challenges of rebuilding and recovery. The hosts highlighted the importance of coming together as a community, supporting one another through difficult times, and finding moments of joy and humor amid adversity.
As communities in western North Carolina faced the long road to recovery following Helene’s floods, the radio stations continued to play a vital role in keeping residents informed and connected. Through their live broadcasts, the hosts provided a lifeline to those in need of information, support, and reassurance during a challenging time. Their dedication, resilience, and commitment to serving the community exemplified the strength and unity of the region as they worked together to overcome the devastation left in the storm’s wake.
