North Carolina Official Reveals Shocking Damage to Tourist Site: 'Everything Was Washed Into the Lake'

The mountain village where “The Last of the Mohicans” and “Dirty Dancing” were filmed no longer exists following the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, a local official told Fox News Digital.

The small town of Chimney Rock, North Carolina lies at the base of Chimney Rock State Park and is home to scenic Lake Lure. North Carolina GOP National Committee member Ed Broyhill, who owns a lakefront home, said the community was devastated by storm damage.

“The saddest thing in the world is that a lot of people have made a living catering to tourism… They have everything from hotels and motels and restaurants to nice shops and souvenir shops and clothing stores, and all of that has been washed away.” “Everything of which was washed into the lake,” he said.

HARRIS-TRUMP SHOWDOWN: HURRICANE HELENE IN THE EYE OF THE CAMPAIGN STORM

Ed Broyhill told Fox News Digital that the village of Chimney Rock is now in Lake Lure following the impacts of Hurricane Helene. (James Broyhill)

The roads are washed out, power is out for many and Broyhill expects reconstruction will take “at least a year”.

He called it the “worst weather event ever to occur in western North Carolina.”

HERE YOU CAN FIND THE CURRENT FOX NEWS REPORTS ABOUT HELENE'S HAVOC

Boats, parts of businesses and homes were washed away after the heavy downpour in Helene, western North Carolina. (James Broyhill)

Broyhill recalled watching National Guard helicopters evacuate people from the area on Sunday. He inspected the area and discovered that entire sections of the road were missing. “It’s surreal,” he said.

James Broyhill walks on the dock of his family home on Lake Lure, North Carolina. (James Broyhill)

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has urged people to avoid non-essential travel in Western North Carolina ahead of the normally busy fall foliage season.

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“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of everyone,” Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins said in a news release. “People should still expect roads to be closed in Western North Carolina and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Priority must be given to all emergency responders, supply and transport teams and others who are working hard to assist in what will be a lengthy response and recovery effort.”