NORTH CAROLINA, USA: The death toll from Storm Helene surged to at least 93 on Sunday, with 30 fatalities reported in Buncombe County, North Carolina alone, as rescue teams worked across the southeastern U.S. to reach those in need. The storm caused widespread destruction in states like Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, leaving millions without power and entire communities devastated.
High winds and torrential rains from the storm, which initially struck Florida as a Category 4 hurricane, destroyed homes, washed away roads, and flooded critical infrastructure. At least 37 people died in North Carolina, 25 in South Carolina, and additional deaths were reported in Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Rescue efforts faced severe challenges due to damaged transportation routes, with some areas only accessible by air. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell confirmed the deployment of additional search and rescue teams, particularly in North Carolina, where conditions were dire due to landslides and road closures. Flood warnings remained in effect, and officials expressed concern over potential dam failures.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden and 2024 presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump announced plans to visit affected areas, turning the disaster response into a political event. Biden has already approved federal disaster aid and pledged continued support for the recovery efforts. Almost 2.2 million homes were still without power on Sunday, with power restoration expected to take days.
