Hurricane Helene’s destructive path through the Southeastern United States has left a trail of devastation, with the death toll approaching 100 and millions still without power. North Carolina’s western regions, particularly around Asheville, have been hit hardest by the storm’s aftermath.
At least 94 people have died across several states, including 30 in Buncombe County, which encompasses Asheville. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper warned that this number is likely to rise as rescue efforts continue in isolated areas.
In Asheville, residents are grappling with severe flooding, collapsed infrastructure, and shortages of basic necessities.
Buncombe County Manager Avril Pinder addressed the dire situation, stating, “We hear you. We need food and we need water.”
The city’s water system has been severely damaged, forcing residents to collect water from creeks for basic needs. Over 1,000 people have been reported missing through the county’s online portal, though officials expect this number to decrease once cellular service is restored.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials report that hundreds of roads are closed across western North Carolina, with more than 1,000 people in shelters. Over 50 search and rescue teams are working to reach stranded individuals, including a mission that saved 41 people north of Asheville.
President Joe Biden has described the storm’s impact as “stunning” and plans to visit the affected areas. He has approved a disaster declaration for North Carolina, making federal funding available for affected individuals.
The storm’s effects extend beyond North Carolina. In Florida’s Big Bend region, where Helene made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane with 140 mph winds, communities are struggling to recover. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said it looked “like a bomb went off” after surveying the damage from the air.
As of Sunday night, over 2 million utility customers were still without power across the affected states. South Carolina reported at least 25 deaths, making Helene its deadliest tropical cyclone since Hurricane Hugo in 1989.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell toured south Georgia on Sunday and plans to visit North Carolina on Monday. She emphasized that search and rescue operations are still active, particularly in western North Carolina’s mountainous regions where damaged infrastructure has isolated many communities.
Local officials are urging residents to stay off the roads to allow emergency vehicles access. North Carolina Governor Cooper stated, “Travel in western North Carolina remains limited and dangerous. Please stay off western North Carolina roads.”
As the region begins the long process of recovery, officials warn that rebuilding will be a lengthy and challenging process. The economic impact of Helene is expected to be significant, with damage estimates ranging from $15 billion to $100 billion.