CATASTROPHIC FLOODING FROM HURRICANE HELENE CLAIMS AT LEAST 30 LIVES IN NORTH CAROLINA. (PHOTO).
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Catastrophic Flooding from Hurricane Helene Claims at Least 30 Lives in North Carolina
At least 30 people have died in Buncombe County, North Carolina, following the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, which has left many others unaccounted for. The storm, initially a Category 4 hurricane, made landfall in Florida before moving northward, wreaking havoc across several states. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper described the devastation as "biblical," emphasizing that this is one of the worst natural disasters the state has ever faced. The death toll nationwide has climbed to at least 105, with expectations of further increases as rescue efforts continue.
Buncombe County has emerged as one of the hardest-hit areas, with over 1,000 residents reported missing and many homes completely destroyed. Emergency crews are facing significant challenges due to downed trees and closed roads, complicating rescue operations. "This storm has brought catastrophic devastation... of historic proportions," said Governor Cooper, who noted that the storm dropped between 10 to 29 inches of rain in mountainous regions, leading to life-threatening conditions and widespread power outages.
Residents returning to their neighborhoods have found their homes submerged or severely damaged. Erin Quevedo, a local salon owner, described her business as "completely destroyed," emphasizing the urgency to salvage what remains. The American Red Cross has opened over 140 shelters for evacuees, housing more than 2,000 individuals seeking refuge from the storm's aftermath. Governor Cooper highlighted the desperate need for assistance: "People are desperate for help and we are pushing to get it to them."
As rescue operations continue, the National Guard has rescued over 119 individuals, including an infant. With nearly 2 million people without power across the Southeast and extensive damage estimated between $95 billion and $110 billion, recovery efforts will take time. President Biden has signed a disaster declaration for North Carolina to facilitate federal aid for those affected by Helene's destructive path.
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