Hurricane Helene Death Toll Ascends to 189, Marking the Deadliest Storm Since Katrina
Hurricane Helene’s death toll has reached 189, making it the deadliest storm on the mainland U.S. since Katrina. Significant devastation has occurred across several southeastern states, prompting federal support and efforts to restore power to over 1 million customers. President Biden has deployed troops to assist with recovery, while Congress has been urged to convene to offer additional relief.
The confirmed death toll from Hurricane Helene has risen to 189, marking it as the deadliest storm to strike the mainland United States since Hurricane Katrina. The devastation caused by Helene has resulted in significant storm surges, wind damage, and extensive flooding, impacting states such as Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. As rescue operations continue, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have visited the affected areas to assess the damage and express federal support. President Biden assured the community in Raleigh, North Carolina, that the federal government stands ready to assist in the recovery efforts, proclaiming, “I am here to say the United States — the nation — has your back. We are not leaving till you are back on your feet completely.” Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend as a Category 4 hurricane, marking it as the most powerful storm to hit that region on record. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with approximately 1.2 million customers still without power across the southern states. Notably, South Carolina has reported over 484,410 customers affected, followed by North Carolina with 343,632 and Georgia with 354,418 power outages. In response to the crisis, President Biden ordered the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to assist the North Carolina National Guard in delivering essential supplies to isolated communities in need. The soldiers, part of the Infantry Battalion Task Force based in Fort Liberty, North Carolina, will expedite the distribution of food, water, and medical supplies. A joint letter from Senate leaders has urged Congress to address the extensive destruction caused by the hurricane, stating, “Although the true level of devastation is still unfolding, it is clear that Congress must act to meet the unmet needs in our states and address the scope and scale of destruction experienced by our constituents.” The leaders have proposed a meeting in October to formulate a legislative response before the end of the calendar year.
Hurricane Helene has caused unprecedented destruction across multiple Southeastern states, with a confirmed death toll that positions it as one of the most lethal hurricanes in recent history. The storm’s impact has prompted federal and state authorities to mobilize resources for recovery and aid, paving the way for critical assessments and strategic responses to assist affected communities. The collaborative efforts by federal leaders highlight the necessity for timely action to alleviate the suffering of those impacted and provide necessary support to restore normalcy in the affected regions.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the death toll has surged to 189, revealing the extensive toll this storm has taken on human life and infrastructure. As recovery efforts continue, the federal government, alongside state agencies, is working diligently to provide aid and restore power to the millions affected. Legislative action is anticipated as congressional leaders recognize the urgent need for assistance in the wake of this historic disaster.
Original Source: abc7ny.com
