From Staff Reports

The Biltmore Estate abruptly closed on Oct. 3 after sustaining damage from Tropical Storm Helene in what it described in a posting as “significant flooding, impassable roads and widespread water and power outages” — and it also announced that it will remain closed until at least Oct. 15.

What’s more, Roanoke, Va., television station WDBJ reported that, on Oct. 3, “the estate said damage was spread across the buildings and the grounds of the 8,000-acre property.

“Property representatives said the iconic 175,000-square-foot home sustained minimal to no damage, as did the winery, conservatory, hotels and gardens.

“However, Biltmore’s entrance, farm and other buildings experienced significant flooding and subsequent damage.

“Sadly, some animals on the property also died, but the estate said the vast majority of them are safe and have been accounted for.

An unidentified spokesperson for the estate reportedly told WDBJ the following:

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of concern for our region as communities face the aftermath of this storm.

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

In a statement shared Oct. 1 on X, the Biltmore Estate wrote that it will remain closed until Oct. 15, as it continues to “assess how (it) safely will open.

“We are heartbroken for our friends, family and neighbors across this region who have been devastated by this storm.

“To our first-responders, utility workers and community volunteers: we are eternally grateful for your endless care and courage. We will all work together to recover from this unprecedented disaster.”

Meanwhile, USA Today reported that the Biltmore Estate initially had planned to reopen on Oct. 3, based on a statement shared on X on Oct. 1 afternoon as follows:

“The safety of our guests and employees is our top priority, and we appreciate your patience as we assess the damage of last weekend’s storm and work to repair communication channels.”

The Biltmore Estate is one of North Carolina’s most-visited tourist attractions, drawing more than 1.4 million visitors annually, the New York Post reported on Oct. 4.

“Built in the late 19th century by George Washington Vanderbilt II, the architectural marvel spans a jaw-dropping 175,000 square feet, boasting 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces,” the NYP added.

The Biltmore House, the highlight of the estated, is located about 2,000 feet east of the French Broad River, which flooded to a record of more than 24 feet in some areas affected by Helene. 

The river is roughly 1,985 feet above sea level, while the estate was built at about 2,200 feet above sea level.