MORRISVILLE, N.C. (10.02.24) — As search and rescue efforts remain underway in many parts of western North Carolina, Hurricane Helene’s devastating toll of destruction is coming to light. Dozens of mountain towns and rural communities are isolated as roads and highways have been destroyed or closed down, thousands of residents are without power, and cell phone signal, wifi connectivity, food, and water remain scarce.
Democracy North Carolina has long had deep ties to our communities in the West, as well as family and friends living in or from the affected communities. In many ways, it is difficult to fathom the level of devastation experienced. Our organization is committed to supporting impacted communities across the region with organizers working around the clock to provide up-to-date information to those who have been affected by the storm. A living document with resources is available and is being updated daily.
While voting in the upcoming election might not be top of mind for those who have been impacted, our organization is working to ensure those who have been affected or displaced by Helene will have access to the ballot and remain eligible to vote this fall.
Voters who have been impacted by the storm and have questions about voting can call 888-OUR-VOTE (888-687-8683). Additional information is available below.
Voting Access for Impacted Residents
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Democracy North Carolina recognizes the challenges faced by voters who have been temporarily displaced but intend to return to their original residence. For voting purposes, these individuals retain their original residence. To address the issue of photo ID, President Biden granted Governor Cooper’s request for a disaster declaration on September 28. Voters who are unable to present acceptable photo ID due to Hurricane Helene can vote provisionally by selecting the “victim of a natural disaster within 100 days before Election Day” option on the ID Exception Form.
Impact on Early Voting Locations
The damage caused by Hurricane Helene will likely necessitate changes to early voting locations in western NC counties, as well as potential alterations to voting procedures. Due to SB 749, the NC State Board of Elections can only exercise its emergency powers to respond to natural disasters in an open meeting of the Board. Therefore, updates on the Board’s response are still pending. In the meantime, voters are encouraged to contact the NC State Board of Elections office for the most up-to-date voting guidance or visit ncsbe.gov/helene.
Vote-by-Mail Challenges
Due to the temporary suspension of mail delivery service by USPS for ZIP codes beginning with 286, 287, 288, and 289, as well as the closure of 39 post offices, voters in western NC who have requested or intend to request vote-by-mail ballots may experience additional delays. Democracy North Carolina urges affected voters to stay informed and plan accordingly.
For further information and updates on voting access and procedures in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, please visit the website ncsbe.gov/helene or contact the voter assistance hotline 888-OUR-VOTE (888-687-8683).
Note: The information provided in this press release is accurate as of the time of its release. Voters are advised to stay updated through official NCSBE channels for any changes or developments.
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Democracy North Carolina is a statewide nonpartisan organization that uses research, organizing, and advocacy to strengthen democratic structures, build power among disenfranchised communities, and inspire confidence in a transformed political process that works for all. Learn more at democracync.org.