The grounds of America’s largest home – the Biltmore Estate – experienced ‘significant flooding and damage’ after Hurricane Helene

The Biltmore Estate, America’s grandest estate, has released a statement addressing the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene, which wreaked havoc in Asheville, NC and the surrounding region.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of concern for our region as communities deal with the aftermath of this storm,” the estate said in its statement, noting the damage that has affected the 8,000-hectare (12-square-mile) property. .

While the Biltmore House itself, along with the conservatory, wineries and hotels, “received minimal or no storm damage,” other areas of the estate were not so lucky.

“In the wooded areas, which are a large part of the property, the wind damage is extensive to the ground and some structures,” the statement said.

Crews are working to clear roads and assess general damage.

The property’s entrance to Biltmore Village and “other low-lying areas,” such as her farm, suffered “significant flooding and damage to buildings,” the statement said.

Built in the late 19th century by George Washington Vanderbilt II, the architectural wonder spans 175,000 square feet, with 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces.

It is one of North Carolina’s most visited tourist attractions, attracting over 1.4 million visitors each year.

With its many gardens, wooded areas and world-class wineries, the estate serves as a cornerstone of tourism in the region.

Unfortunately, the storm also affected some of the farm’s animals. “Sadly we lost some of our animals during the storm, but the vast majority are safe and accounted for thanks to our dedicated farming and equine teams,” the statement continued.

The property remains closed while damage assessment and repairs continue, with a tentative reopening date set for at least October 15.

Hurricane Helene, one of the most powerful storms to hit the Southeast in recent memory, left a trail of destruction in and around Asheville. Biltmore Village, a bustling tourist center located at the entrance to the property, experienced severe flooding that damaged homes and businesses alike.

With its massive role in the local economy, the closing of the Biltmore is expected to have ripple effects throughout the region.

Marissa Jamison, Biltmore’s senior manager of public relations, echoed the estate’s appreciation for the public’s concern, but urged that attention be focused on the wider region.

“We ask that the public focus on our deeply devastated community and wider region at this time and contribute to relief efforts if they have the means to do so,” she told The Post in a statement.

As the property and the community at large work towards recovery, property staff expressed their hope for a speedy restoration.

“As with all of our neighbors who experienced the effects of Helena, we are working on our plans for a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming our guests to the region as soon as it is safe to do so.”