Hurricane Helene has led to nearly 100 fatalities across six states, with many unaccounted for due to widespread flooding and power outages affecting over two million homes. Rescue operations are ongoing, and officials warn of continuing risks of flooding in already saturated areas.
Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across several states, leaving nearly 100 fatalities and two million homes without power. As operations to rescue and recover victims intensify, authorities fear the death toll may continue to escalate. Reports from the Associated Press indicate that as of Sunday evening, the confirmed death count stands at 91, with many individuals remaining unaccounted for in the aftermath of the storm. North Carolina’s Buncombe County, particularly the city of Asheville, has experienced massive flooding, contributing to at least 30 reported fatalities. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper described the situation as an “unprecedented tragedy,” highlighting that many residents are isolated due to impassable roads caused by severe floods and landslides. The storm has similarly affected other states, with 17 storm-related deaths in Georgia and a reported 25 in South Carolina. Over two million customers remain without power as of early Monday morning, according to data from Poweroutage.us. The state of South Carolina faces the highest impact with over 755,000 power outages, followed by Georgia with more than 580,000 and North Carolina with approximately 458,000 homes and businesses affected. Florida and Virginia are also experiencing significant outages, each with over 100,000 customers affected. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) chief, Deanne Criswell, described the flooding events in North Carolina as “historic,” acknowledging the unforeseen magnitude of the situation. The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center continues to monitor the area, cautioning about potential excessive rainfall that could exacerbate already challenging conditions. Authorities in Buncombe County have reported a decrease in the number of missing persons from 1,000 to at least 600. In addition, approximately 153 individuals remain unaccounted for in Tennessee. There is optimism that many are safe yet unable to communicate due to widespread power outages and disrupted cell services. In a related development, former President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Valdosta, Georgia, to receive updates on the disaster and assist in the distribution of relief supplies. He has criticized President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris regarding their responses to Hurricane Helene. Both Biden and Harris have expressed intentions to visit affected areas as conditions permit.
Hurricane Helene made landfall and caused widespread destruction, particularly affecting states on the eastern seaboard of the United States. The storm resulted in extensive flooding, landslides, and power outages across multiple regions, prompting a significant emergency response. Authorities are conducting search and rescue operations while managing the aftermath of the storm, including the impact on infrastructure, public safety, and utilities. The situation has drawn national attention due to the scale of the disaster and the ongoing need for relief efforts in the affected communities.
In summary, Hurricane Helene has caused grave consequences across several states, resulting in nearly 100 deaths and extensive power outages for over two million residents. Rescue efforts are underway as authorities work to locate missing individuals and restore vital services. Continued monitoring of flood risks will be essential as the recovery efforts progress.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
