Two weeks after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc across Western North Carolina, local authorities are assessing the extensive damage and initiating recovery efforts. In Asheville, the water system is slowly recovering, but many residents are still facing water shortages and health concerns due to unsafe drinking water. Construction work is underway at the Asheville water plant to expedite the restoration process, and a bypass line has been reconnected to facilitate water flow. Meanwhile, the community is resourcefully addressing the lack of running water, finding alternative methods to manage sanitation needs. The situation remains critical as thousands in the region, including those in remote areas, struggle with access to clean water. Local agencies report that full restoration could take weeks, while innovative solutions, such as mobile water testing labs and public health initiatives, are being deployed to alleviate the crisis.