Hurricane Helene left a trail of devastation across the southeastern United States, claiming at least 84 lives and causing billions of dollars in damage. The Category 4 storm, which made landfall with winds of 140 mph, brought torrential rain, flooding, and widespread destruction from Florida to Tennessee.
In North Carolina, where 30 people were confirmed dead in Asheville, authorities fear the death toll will rise as emergency responders struggle to reach isolated, flood-ravaged areas. Mudslides, collapsed roads, and downed infrastructure have left many regions cut off. Over 50 search teams have been dispatched to find those stranded.
Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina urged residents to avoid travel, allowing emergency crews to operate more efficiently. Despite their efforts, some families like Jessica Drye Turner’s were unable to be saved in time—her parents and nephew tragically drowned in the floods.
Florida’s Big Bend region also faced massive destruction, where entire neighborhoods were leveled, and churches held services outdoors amidst the debris. With several million residents still without power, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster called for patience as recovery operations continue.
Federal assistance is underway, with President Joe Biden declaring disaster zones and FEMA teams working across six states. Yet, the road to recovery is long, as communities prepare for the challenging months ahead amidst warnings that climate change will only intensify future storms.
