In recent months, Hurricane Helene and the historic flooding it unleashed on western North Carolina have dominated housing headlines. The Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) estimates damages and needs totaling $59.

Typically, the winter months draw millions of visitors to the Blue Ridge Mountains, inviting hiking trails and live music venues. But all that is over for now.

The storm upended the Christmas tree industry in the state’s western region. Now, farmers and residents are eager for the comfort of the season’s rituals.