There was a sense of relief in the city, though some residents said they were still afraid to drink the water.

Asheville residents were told Monday that the water is safe to drink again nearly two months after Helene damaged both water systems that serve the city. As winter approaches, western North Carolina residents are also concerned about fuel shortages needed to heat homes.

Asheville, North Carolina, residents could have a boil water notice lifted as soon as Tuesday, more than seven weeks after Hurricane Helene struck on September 27.