Devastating Impact of Hurricane Helene: Over 90 Dead in North Carolina as Missing Persons Remain Unconfirmed

Devastating Impact of Hurricane Helene

Authorities in North Carolina reported on Monday that Hurricane Helene has resulted in at least 94 confirmed storm-related deaths, spanning across 20 counties. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) provided the latest updates, with the highest number of fatalities occurring in Buncombe County, where 42 lives were lost. Yancey and Henderson counties reported 12 and 7 fatalities, respectively. These figures have been verified by the North Carolina Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

Currently, the number of missing persons remains uncertain as multiple sources were used to report individuals unaccounted for during the storm. Efforts are ongoing to consolidate these reports, according to the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. Justin J. Graney, Chief of External Affairs and Communications for North Carolina Emergency Management, indicated that extensive searches are being conducted in response to the disaster.

Graney detailed that search efforts include grid searches, vehicle inspections, and evaluations of damaged structures and areas where debris has accumulated. Hundreds of responders are involved in these operations. He noted that local entities are gathering information from various sources, including local 911 calls, the NC 211 call center, and social media, to locate those reported missing or requiring welfare checks.

Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina late last month, unleashing devastating flooding due to historic rainfall in the mountainous regions. As a result, tens of thousands of residents remain without power, and some areas, including Asheville, are still without running water. In response to the disaster, Governor Roy Cooper has signed the state's first relief package, allocating $273 million for immediate recovery needs. This funding aims to help state and local agencies meet the federal requirements for disaster assistance, support public-school nutrition staff affected by school closures, and facilitate upcoming elections in the state.

Devastating Impact of Hurricane Helene: Over 90 Dead in North Carolina as Missing Persons Remain Unconfirmed