Helene kills at least 90, homes and memories washed away

[june04]

The Southeastern U.S. has begun a massive cleanup and recovery effort after Hurricane Helene caused widespread destruction, leaving nearly 100 people dead and millions without power. The storm affected states from Florida to Virginia, causing flooding, damaging roads and bridges, and knocking out power to 2.7 million customers. Deaths were reported across North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Virginia, with officials fearing the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.

In North Carolina, Buncombe County was particularly hard-hit, with 30 fatalities, and widespread flooding submerged streets in Asheville. Governor Roy Cooper described the disaster as unprecedented. Search and rescue teams from 19 states are assisting, but recovery may take months, especially as some areas remain without basic necessities like gas, food, and water.

Damage estimates from the storm range between $15 billion and $100 billion, with property destruction and lost economic output yet to be fully assessed. Communities like Horseshoe Beach and Steinhatchee in Florida's Gulf Coast were especially devastated, with storm surges and wind destroying homes that had been standing for generations.

President Joe Biden plans to visit the impacted areas soon and has pledged federal assistance, describing the damage as "tragic" and "stunning." Meanwhile, survivors in affected areas continue to search through debris, waiting for aid and trying to rebuild their lives amidst the chaos.