Hurricane Helene Ranks as One of the Deadliest Storms in U.S. History as Death Toll Exceeds 200

Hurricane Helene has been declared one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history, with over 215 confirmed deaths following its landfall in Florida. The storm caused major flooding in six Southeastern states, particularly devastating the Appalachian regions. As recovery efforts proceed, thousands remain without power and clean water, while health risks increase due to potential contamination.

Hurricane Helene has emerged as one of the deadliest storms to impact the United States this century, with its death toll surpassing 200 as rescue operations continue following the storm’s landfall in Florida. As of Thursday, the storm has been linked to at least 215 fatalities, positioning it as the third deadliest hurricane of the 21st century, following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which resulted in 1,392 deaths, and Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused at least 2,975 deaths. Only one other hurricane in the past six decades, Camille in 1969, was deadlier than Helene, whose deadly aftermath was primarily attributed to severe flooding that plagued six Southeastern states after it made landfall as a Category 4 storm late on September 26. The immense challenges posed by Hurricane Helene included unprecedented storm surge flooding in Tampa and significant rainfall that commenced on September 25, leading to devastating consequences particularly in regions such as eastern Tennessee, western Virginia, and North Carolina. The National Weather Service reported a staggering 13.98 inches of rain in Asheville, North Carolina, contributing to widespread flooding, damage to infrastructure, power outages, and landslides that forced many citizens to take refuge in temporary shelters. Preliminary data suggested that rainfall totals exceeded 10 inches in various locales across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. As the floodwaters begin to recede, health officials are issuing warnings about the potential risks survivors will face, including contaminated drinking water and the growth of mold due to inundation. Furthermore, the ongoing search for the missing continues alongside the efforts to restore power and clean water access, as thousands remain affected one week after the hurricane struck Florida.

Hurricane Helene, a major storm that recently impacted the Southeastern United States, has been recognized as one of the deadliest storms of the current century. The storm made landfall in Florida on September 26, 2023, as a powerful Category 4 hurricane. Its aftermath has been particularly severe, resulting in significant loss of life and extensive flooding across multiple states, a critical issue that demands attention following the devastating impacts of prior hurricanes. Historically, severe hurricanes have been associated with high mortality rates, especially due to subsequent flooding events, which prompted researchers to examine the long-term effects of such disasters.

In conclusion, Hurricane Helene has resulted in a tragic death toll of at least 215 individuals, situating it among the most lethal storms in U.S. history since Hurricane Katrina. The extensive flooding and damage caused by the storm highlight the intense and often deadly consequences of such natural disasters. As recovery efforts continue, authorities are striving to assist those impacted while addressing the risks of water contamination and mold that threaten the health of survivors.

Original Source: www.axios.com