High winds, heavy rain and flooding. These are a few things that the residents of North Carolina can expect as Hurricane Helene approaches the United States. As things stand, forecasters are predicting that the storm is set to intensify as it makes its way across the Gulf of Mexico, prompting schools to close and residents to evacuate. A state of emergency has been declared in Florida and Georgia while fears grow that the situation could be a repeat of the deadly Hurricane Hugo from 1989.

Amidst the chaos, Charlotte Motor Speedway has opened its doors for evacuees, providing them safe shelter to ride out the storm. According to the press release, the track will open its campgrounds for refugees on Wednesday at noon and accommodations will be available for as long as possible.

Charlotte Motor Speedway provides refuge against Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene is expected to transition to a Category 4 storm by the time it reaches the coast of Florida by late Thursday/early Friday. According to forecasters, its projected trajectory indicates it will move toward Georgia before heading toward Tennessee. If it does follow its expected path, Charlotte Motor Speedway will be spared from its wrath and will be able to provide shelter to the refugees. According to the press release, the campgrounds are located just a few minutes away from Exit 49 (Bruton Smith Boulevard) off Interstate 85.

As per the media advisory, refugees have been asked to check in at the Camping World Racing Resort office (6600 Bruton Smith Blvd, Concord, NC 28027), which is accessible from the entrance to zMAX Dragway. Evacuees who are arriving after hours will be able to park their cars near the camping office after which they can check in during business hours. They will have access to Charlotte Motor Speedway’s bathhouse facilities, while further questions can be asked by dialing 704-455-4445.

The ongoing situation is eerily similar to the time when Hurricane Hugo hit Charlotte on September 22nd, 1989. About 85% of homes in Charlotte lost power because of the tropical cyclone, with some being in the dark for almost six weeks. It was the costliest hurricane in United States history at that time, causing damage amounting to an estimated $8 billion and resulting in 26 fatalities on the mainland. If that wasn’t all, over 200,000 homes were also destroyed by the Category 5 hurricane, leading to disastrous consequences for everyone affected by the tragedy.

With the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs going on, Charlotte Motor Speedway will also be hosting the 2024 Bank of America Roval 400 in the coming weeks. The 2.52-mile road course will feature the final Round of 12 race before the final eight drivers go to Las Vegas Motor Speedway. While preparations for the 109-lap race remain underway in North Carolina, it’s refreshing to see that the racetrack will serve a bigger purpose at a time of need for victims of Hurricane Helene.