Hurricane Helene’s Impact: Death Toll Rises to 189, Prompting Federal Response

Hurricane Helene’s confirmed death toll has reached 189, making it the deadliest hurricane on the U.S. mainland since Hurricane Katrina. The storm has caused severe flooding and destruction across several states, sparking extensive recovery efforts supported by the federal government and military deployments. Congressional leaders have called for legislative action to address the disaster’s needs, while organizations like the Red Cross seek donations for ongoing relief efforts.

The death toll from Hurricane Helene has tragically risen to at least 189 individuals as of the latest reports, marking it as the deadliest hurricane to strike the mainland United States since Hurricane Katrina. This devastating storm has caused widespread destruction across multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. Reports indicate significant storm surge, wind damage, and inland flooding have led to catastrophic consequences, including flooded neighborhoods and destroyed homes. In response to the situation, recovery efforts are ongoing across the Southeast. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited the affected areas to observe the devastation and reassure citizens of comprehensive federal support. “I am here to say the United States — the nation — has your back,” President Biden stated to a crowd in Raleigh, North Carolina, emphasizing the commitment to assist until communities fully recover. Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 hurricane, was notably the strongest storm ever recorded in that area. Recovery efforts are reflected in the power outages affecting 1.2 million customers across the Southern states, with South Carolina experiencing the most significant disruptions. To bolster recovery efforts, President Biden has ordered the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support the North Carolina National Guard’s operations, facilitating the delivery of essential supplies to isolated communities. Additionally, bipartisan support has emerged among Congressional leaders, who have called for immediate legislative action to address the extensive needs created by the hurricane’s devastation. Several senators united in a letter urging Congress to convene and work towards relief efforts for the millions affected by circumstances stemming from Hurricane Helene. Efforts to help impacted individuals can be made through donations to organizations such as the Red Cross, which provide essential resources for disaster response and recovery.

Hurricane Helene made landfall on Thursday night in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 hurricane. This storm event was notable not only for its landfall strength but also for its extensive impact across several states, which have experienced catastrophic levels of damage. The ongoing recovery efforts have necessitated federal involvement, including the deployment of military resources to assist affected communities. The event’s death toll and the scale of power outages have drawn national attention, highlighting the need for relief efforts and congressional action to support those affected.

In summary, Hurricane Helene has emerged as a historic and devastating storm, leading to significant casualties and extensive damage across multiple states. The federal government is actively engaged in recovery efforts, exemplified by the deployment of military personnel to assist in logistics and supply delivery. Bipartisan support in Congress suggests a collective approach towards addressing the needs created by this disaster, and there are ongoing calls for public assistance to aid recovery efforts for the millions impacted.

Original Source: 6abc.com