Hurricane Helene’s death toll has increased to 189, making it the deadliest storm since Katrina. The hurricane caused catastrophic flooding and damage across multiple states. Recovery efforts are underway, with President Biden pledging support and announcing military aid to affected areas. Congress is urged to act swiftly to provide necessary relief for millions impacted by this disaster.
The death toll from Hurricane Helene has tragically risen to at least 189, as reported by The Associated Press, marking it as the deadliest storm to impact the mainland United States since Hurricane Katrina. The catastrophic effects of Helene, including storm surge, wind damage, and substantial inland flooding, have severely affected regions across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, leading to widespread destruction and displacement of residents. As recovery operations unfold across the affected areas, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited the region to assess the aftermath while ongoing efforts seek to locate missing individuals. President Biden expressed his commitment to support those impacted, stating, “I am here to say the United States — the nation — has your back. We are not leaving until you are back on your feet completely.” Hurricane Helene made landfall on the Big Bend region of Florida as a formidable Category 4 hurricane, establishing itself as the most powerful hurricane to hit the area on record. Recovery endeavors continue amid significant power outages, with over 1.2 million customers without electricity in several Southern states. The states most impacted include South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, with hundreds of thousands facing prolonged outages. In response to the evolving disaster, President Biden has ordered the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support the North Carolina National Guard, facilitating expedited distribution of essential resources such as food, water, and medical supplies to isolated communities. Furthermore, a collective plea from Senate leaders across party lines urged Congress to reconvene and address the devastating consequences of Hurricane Helene. The leaders emphasized the necessity for legislative action to assist those affected by the storm. In the context of the ongoing recovery efforts, humanitarian organizations such as the Red Cross have highlighted opportunities for public contributions to aid affected individuals and families during this crisis.
Hurricane Helene made landfall as a significant Category 4 hurricane in Florida, resulting in widespread devastation across the Southeastern United States. This storm has been characterized by its strong winds, substantial storm surge, and extensive coastal and inland flooding, contributing to an alarming increase in the death toll. After the storm, recovery initiatives have mobilized at both federal and state levels, with officials working tirelessly to provide necessary support and resources.
The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has highlighted the severe impact of natural disasters on communities, prompting significant governmental and organizational responses to provide aid. With a rising death toll and extensive damage reports, the situation continues to call for collective efforts in recovery and rebuilding. The outreach from federal and state officials, alongside the engagement of the congressional response, underscores the commitment to assist those in need during this challenging time.
Original Source: abc11.com
