Hurricane Helene has resulted in approximately 100 deaths across six states, with extensive flooding causing widespread power outages affecting over 2 million homes. North Carolina reports the highest toll, with significant fatalities also in Georgia and South Carolina. Officials are conducting ongoing rescue missions as they assess the damage and respond to the needs of affected residents.
The devastating impact of Hurricane Helene has resulted in nearly 100 fatalities across six states, with ongoing rescue and recovery operations highlighting the catastrophic nature of the disaster. According to the Associated Press, the death toll reached 91 as of Sunday evening, with hundreds still unaccounted for. North Carolina’s Buncombe County reported at least 30 deaths, and the city of Asheville is particularly affected, experiencing unprecedented flooding that has isolated the area. Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina described the current situation as an “unprecedented tragedy,” as many residents remain cut off due to impassable roads caused by floods and landslides. Other reported casualties include at least 17 in Georgia and 25 in South Carolina, illustrating the widespread devastation. In the aftermath, it was noted that over 2 million homes and businesses are without power, with South Carolina enduring the worst conditions, affecting more than 755,000 customers. Georgia and North Carolina follow closely behind with significant outages. FEMA Chief Deanne Criswell characterized the flooding situation as “historic,” acknowledging the challenges faced by response teams on the ground. While Hurricane Helene has weakened, there remains a slight risk of additional excessive rainfall in already saturated areas, potentially exacerbating flooding conditions. Reports also indicate that more than 600 individuals in Buncombe County remain unaccounted for, a decrease from previous figures, while Tennessee reports around 153 missing persons. Officials suspect that many of the missing may be safe but unreachable due to power outages. In related news, former President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Valdosta, Georgia, to assess damage and assist in the distribution of relief supplies, following remarks critical of the current administration’s response to the hurricane. Both President Biden and Vice President Harris have indicated their intent to visit affected communities at a time that will not hinder ongoing emergency operations.
Hurricane Helene, which recently struck the southeastern United States, has been noted for its unprecedented flooding and destructive impact on communities. The storm has led to significant loss of life and widespread power outages across several states, prompting urgent recovery efforts. With some regions experiencing prolonged isolation due to transportation challenges, government officials and agencies are mobilizing resources to assist affected residents as they face the aftermath of this natural disaster.
Hurricane Helene has tragically claimed nearly 100 lives, disrupted power for millions, and left numerous individuals unaccounted for. The scale of the devastation across multiple states has led to urgent rescue and recovery efforts. This situation remains fluid, and officials continue to address the challenges posed by the storm, emphasizing the need for community support and preparedness for future disasters.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
