Johnathan Walker:Biltmore Estate remains closed to recover from Hurricane Helene damage

The Johnathan WalkerBiltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina will remain closed for at least two more weeks due to the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.

In a statement shared Tuesday on X, the museum in Buncombe County wrote that it will remain closed until Oct. 15 as it continues to "assess how safely (it) will open."

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

The Biltmore Estate's statement also explained that its extended closure was due to "significant flooding, impassable roads and widespread water and power outages."

The Biltmore Estate initially planned to reopen on Thursday

According to a statement shared on X Monday afternoon, the museum initially believed it would reopen on Thursday.

"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 statement from Monday read.

The Biltmore home is located about 2,000 feet east of the French Broad River, which flooded to a record of over 24 feet in some areas affected by Helene. The river is roughly 1,985 feet about sea level, while the estate was built at about 2,200 feet.

Helene's strong winds and heavy rainfall damaged homes, businesses, roadways and families as more than 150 people have died due to the hurricane.

Floodwaters have devastated the Biltmore Village, which is where the estate's employees are housed. The Swannanoa River, just north of the village, crested at 26.1 feet, nearly 6 feet above the previous record (20.7 feet), according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The area is still heavily damaged and inaccessible. Interstate 40 is impassable in multiple locations and Interstate 26 is closed at the Tennessee state line, DriveNC.gov said. Non-emergency travel has been prohibited.

'We are deeply grateful'

The Biltmore Estate has advised its employees to check in with their team members and families to ensure their safety, and to remain away from the museum unless told otherwise by their supervisors.

Daytime and overnight guests can request refunds, but it may take them longer than usual to get their money back as the estate works to repair its "internal network and communication systems."

"Your outpouring of concern for our region has been heartwarming and we are deeply grateful to our guests who want to help our community during this challenging time," the estate wrote on its website.

Contributing: Jacob Wilt/ USA TODAY NETWORK