Article Summary –
Hurricane Helene has left western North Carolina in crisis, with 61 confirmed deaths and hundreds missing. Floods and landslides have complicated recovery efforts. Federal and state resources, including air rescues, have been deployed, but challenges like lack of water, power, and telecommunications persist. President Biden pledged ongoing support during his visit. Communities face a long recovery process, with need for sustained government aid.
Western North Carolina grapples with a severe crisis post-Hurricane Helene, as recovery efforts continue. Confirmed deaths number in the dozens, with many still missing.
“It’s like something out of the Bible,” said Crystal Capps from Yancey County, describing the hurricane’s devastation.
Mt. Mitchell, the state’s highest point, feeds into the Cane and South Toe Rivers in Yancey County, setting the stage for massive floods due to the region’s terrain and heavy rains preceding the hurricane.
Some areas experienced over two feet of rain, causing rivers to overflow and flood local communities severely.
“The mountains made it hard for people to evacuate. Rivers swelled over 40 feet, valleys became rivers, and mudslides destroyed homes,” Capps told Cardinal & Pine.
Capps said her home was spared, but the storm’s impact on her community was “devastating.”
Burnsville, Yancey’s county seat, is an hour from Asheville, making access challenging even on normal days.
Gov. Roy Cooper detailed to MSNBC the complexities of rescue efforts in these areas, noting the use of aircraft for rescues where land access is impossible.
Hundreds remain unaccounted for. Cooper emphasized ongoing efforts to find and assist them.
Federal Support in Western North Carolina
The federal government plays a crucial role in recovery efforts. President Biden approved a disaster declaration for 25 counties, facilitating federal aid for housing and repairs.
Biden ordered the activation of 1,000 soldiers to assist with recovery, visiting North Carolina to meet responders working to manage the crisis.
FEMA personnel conducted searches in 675 areas, rescuing 127 people. The Urban Search and Rescue team numbers have increased to 1,250 in the region.
Biden announced North Carolina would be reimbursed 100% for cleanup costs for six months, easing the recovery’s financial burden.
During his visit, Biden expressed commitment to ongoing support.
Finding the Missing
Efforts to find missing persons continue. Capps noted local emergency services’ significant role in rescue operations, highlighting community-led rescues alongside federal efforts.
Those unable to contact loved ones can dial 2-1-1 in NC, or 1-888-892-1162 out-of-state, to request welfare checks.
Asheville ‘Still in Crisis Mode’
Hurricane Helene left Asheville critically impacted; 61 deaths were reported. Mayor Esther Manheimer emphasized restoring water and power as priorities amid rescue efforts.
Up to 100,000 residents might need drinking water support for weeks.
State Reps. highlighted water as the community’s main need. Manheimer stated recovery will take a long time.
Public schools are serving as water stations, with reopening dates uncertain.
Telecommunications Challenges
Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers cited telecommunications failures as a major issue, underscoring the need for improved communications to facilitate rescue and recovery.
The Biden administration deployed 67 Starlink satellites to enhance communication.
Smathers stressed the importance of tailored recovery efforts, given the unique needs of Western NC towns.
Boone’s Recovery Efforts
Hurricane Helene’s impact on Boone was severe, with officials labeling it as the worst disaster in Watauga County’s history. Recovery efforts are ongoing.
The Red Cross is using Appalachian State University as a shelter, providing meals and Wi-Fi. Classes are canceled until after the fall break.
Community members, including students, are actively delivering supplies and supporting affected areas.
Water remains the most urgent need, with recommendations for people to avoid visiting the area to ease resource strain.
—
Read More North Carolina News