Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in North Carolina, resulting in at least 91 storm-related fatalities, with reports of additional missing or unaccounted for individuals. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the fatalities, with the most deaths reported in Buncombe County, followed by Yancey and Henderson counties.
Efforts are underway to account for missing persons, with various sources reporting different numbers. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety is working to accumulate these numbers, including conducting wide area searches and utilizing information from local 911, the NC 211 call center, social media reports, and shelter occupancy data.
The catastrophic flooding from Hurricane Helene's historic rainfall in the North Carolina mountains left tens of thousands without power and some residents without running water, including those in Asheville. Governor Roy Cooper signed the state's first relief package, allocating $273 million for immediate needs and providing flexibility to agencies and displaced residents. The funds will also be used to meet the federal government's match for disaster assistance programs, pay public-school nutrition employees, and support election administration in the state.
The response to Hurricane Helene in North Carolina has been a collaborative effort involving local entities, emergency responders, and government officials. Governor Cooper's swift action in signing the relief package demonstrates the state's commitment to addressing the devastation caused by the storm.
As recovery efforts continue in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the focus remains on providing support to those affected and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet the ongoing needs of the community.