Hurricane Helene disrupts peak season travel plans in WNC mountains

MAGGIE VALLEY, N.C. (WLOS) — As the fall season begins, it’s prime visitation time in the Western North Carolina mountains, but Hurricane Helene is forcing some adjustments for tourists.

One couple from Pensacola, F.L., told News 13 they are keeping in close contact with their family as they watch floodwaters rise in WNC.

HURRICANE HELENE FORCES CLOSURE OF WNC CAMPGROUNDS DURING PEAK FALL SEASON

Steve Mills said he and his wife escape the summer Florida heat by traveling in their RV to the much cooler mountains of WNC and often enjoy the scenery and weather around Maggie Valley.

But, in having endured hurricanes in Florida, Mills said the two know how to take measures to stay safe, even while encountering Helene rain and winds here.

WNC TOURISTS FACE FLOODING INSTEAD OF FALL COLORS AS HELENE HITS

“We’re in a 5th-wheel camper, so we decided to get a hotel room for tonight just to be safe,” Mills said. “My wife said the wind could get up there, predicting 40-50 mph maybe at the most.”

Mills said many local campgrounds and RV parks are closing due to the weather. While Mills said he and his wife planned to return to Florida on October 1, they are now considering extending their visit due to weather conditions.