Massive relief effort follows Hurricane Helene in NC

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, a massive relief effort is underway in Western North Carolina. U.S. National Guard troops, along with federal and state resources, have been deployed to assist with aid distribution and search and rescue operations. The federal response includes 1,000 active-duty military personnel, 4,800 federal workforce members, and 6,000 National Guard personnel from 12 states.

Air search and rescue teams have conducted 48 additional missions, locating 39 survivors. To date, 6,586 people have been rescued, evacuated, or assisted. Nearly 1,700 North Carolina National Guard and 1,000 active-duty military personnel are now on the ground, with an additional 500 soldiers expected to join soon.

Governor Roy Cooper has praised the ongoing efforts and requested further assistance. Communications in the region are improving, with an estimated 80% of cell service restored. FEMA teams are working to install fiber optic cables to support remaining inaccessible areas.

Over $30.2 million in FEMA Individual Assistance funds have been disbursed, with more than 96,747 people registered for aid. Nearly 1,700 people are housed in hotels through FEMA's Transitional Sheltering Assistance. Federal partners have delivered over 6.1 million liters of water and 4.1 million meals.

The disaster declaration now covers 27 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Unfortunately, 77 storm-related deaths have been confirmed, with expectations that this number may rise. Approximately 142,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of over 1 million. Road closures remain a significant issue, with about 650 roads still closed, including 100 primary routes.