Hurricane Helene has left an indelible mark on the southeastern United States, wreaking havoc across six states and leaving at least 95 people dead in its wake. As the full scope of the destruction unfolds, authorities warn that the death toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue. Communities are grappling with extensive flooding, widespread power outages, and the daunting task of rebuilding in the storm’s aftermath.
Making landfall late Thursday night in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 hurricane, Helene packed sustained winds of 140 mph. The storm’s intensity overwhelmed emergency services and caused catastrophic flooding across a vast area. Torrential rains pummeled communities from Florida to Virginia, with some regions reporting as much as 29 inches of rainfall. The destructive storm surge, which reached up to 15 feet in parts of Florida’s Gulf Coast, further compounded the devastation.
Over 2 million people are still without power, and many towns have been cut off from vital supplies due to destroyed roads and bridges. With more than $95 billion to $110 billion in estimated damages, Helene is poised to be one of the costliest storms in U.S. history.
Each state in Helene’s path has borne its own share of tragedy. Here’s how the devastation breaks down:
North Carolina: The hardest-hit state with at least 38 confirmed deaths, 30 of which were reported in Buncombe County alone. Flooding and landslides in the mountainous regions have created treacherous conditions, making rescue efforts particularly challenging.
South Carolina: Twenty-five people have lost their lives due to the storm, with many more unaccounted for as rescue teams navigate flooded roads and debris-laden neighborhoods.
Georgia: Seventeen deaths have been confirmed, and dramatic rescues continue as emergency teams work to reach those stranded in floodwaters. In one rescue alone, 50 people were saved from a rooftop in Erwin.
Florida: Nine people have died, mostly in the Tampa Bay area. Several were in mandatory evacuation zones but failed to evacuate before the storm hit.
Tennessee: Four deaths have been reported, with significant flooding making rural areas difficult to access.
Virginia: Two lives were lost, though heavy rainfall and flooding continue to affect the state’s infrastructure, hampering rescue efforts.
In addition to the staggering loss of life, the physical destruction caused by Hurricane Helene is immense. Numerous homes have been submerged, businesses destroyed, and critical infrastructure rendered inoperable. Across five states, over 2 million homes and businesses remain without power. Utility companies are working around the clock to restore services, but damaged infrastructure means that many residents will face days or even weeks without electricity.
Emergency services are facing overwhelming demands. Hundreds of people remain unaccounted for, particularly in the most devastated areas of North Carolina. Communication blackouts and impassable roads are complicating search and rescue operations, with some regions entirely cut off from help.
Rescue teams are contending with flooded streets, washed-out bridges, and mudslides. In many areas, helicopters are being deployed to deliver food, water, and other essential supplies to isolated communities. North Carolina has deployed over 50 search and rescue teams, including the North Carolina National Guard, which has been airlifting supplies to counties in the western part of the state.
The magnitude of Hurricane Helene has prompted swift action from the federal government. President Biden approved Major Disaster Declarations for all affected states, unlocking critical federal funding for recovery efforts. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has dispatched over 800 personnel to the region, providing essential relief supplies and coordinating with state and local authorities.
In North Carolina, which has borne the brunt of the storm’s fury, search and rescue teams are working tirelessly. In one notable rescue, 41 people were saved north of Asheville, while elsewhere, teams have located a single infant in the debris of a collapsed home. Still, with over 500 people missing in Buncombe County alone, the full extent of the storm’s impact remains unclear.
Despite the challenges, rescue efforts are progressing. Teams from more than a dozen states have joined local responders in a coordinated search and rescue mission. In North Carolina, hundreds of rescues have already been carried out, but with over 500 people still missing in Buncombe County alone, the pressure to find survivors is immense. Landslides and floodwaters have obliterated many roads, leaving rescuers reliant on boats and helicopters to reach the most isolated communities.
In Tennessee’s Unicoi County, another 73 people were reported unaccounted for as of Sunday afternoon. Communication blackouts in some areas continue to frustrate efforts to locate missing individuals, with emergency services increasingly relying on 911 calls, social media outreach, and welfare checks.
For the millions affected by Hurricane Helene, the immediate needs are stark and pressing. Here’s a breakdown of what’s most urgently required in the hardest-hit areas:
Search and rescue: Hundreds remain missing, with search teams still navigating hazardous conditions to locate stranded residents.
Power restoration: With over 2 million people without electricity, utility companies are working to restore power, but the scale of the destruction means many will face extended outages.
Safe drinking water: Many areas, especially in western North Carolina, are experiencing severe shortages of potable water. Public health officials are urging residents to consume only treated or bottled water until public systems are restored.
Road clearance: Hundreds of roads remain impassable, including major highways like Interstates 26 and 40. This is complicating the distribution of emergency supplies and hindering rescue operations.
Fuel and food supplies: Gasoline shortages have been reported in several areas, and long lines have formed at the few functional gas stations. Food supplies are also critically low, with emergency distributions struggling to meet demand.
Medical care: Hospitals are overwhelmed, not only by those injured in the storm but also by patients with chronic conditions who are unable to access regular care due to power outages and damaged infrastructure.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, individuals across the country can make a meaningful difference by supporting relief efforts. Here are some of the most effective ways to help:
Monetary donations: Financial contributions to reputable organizations are the best way to ensure aid reaches those in need. Here are some key organizations:
American Red Cross: Providing shelter, food, and disaster supplies. Donations can be made at redcross.org.
The Salvation Army: Offering emergency aid and long-term recovery services. Donations can be made at salvationarmyusa.org.
Americares: Focused on medical relief and emergency healthcare. Donations can be made at americares.org.
Volunteering: Many organizations are seeking volunteers to help distribute supplies, assist in shelters, and support rebuilding efforts. The Red Cross, Team Rubicon, and local chapters of organizations like Habitat for Humanity are excellent places to start
Blood donations: With many blood drives canceled in the storm’s aftermath, the need for blood donations has become even more critical. The Red Cross encourages individuals to donate blood, which can be done by scheduling an appointment through their website or mobile app.
Volunteering for local efforts: If you live in or near the affected areas, local organizations and emergency shelters are often in dire need of volunteers. It’s important to check with local authorities before heading into affected regions to ensure that your efforts are coordinated and useful.
Support local businesses: As communities begin the long road to recovery, one way to help is by supporting local businesses that were impacted by the storm. This can play a significant role in revitalizing local economies that may have been severely disrupted by the hurricane.
Avoid unsolicited donations: While the urge to send physical goods is understandable, unsolicited items can sometimes complicate logistical efforts for relief organizations. Instead, focus on monetary donations, which allow organizations to purchase what is most needed for the relief effort.
Check on loved ones: For those concerned about family and friends in the affected areas, there are several ways to check on their safety. The American Red Cross Safe and Well program allows individuals to register their status or search for others who have done so. Additionally, social media platforms, text messaging, and direct calls remain effective, though the communication infrastructure in some areas may still be down.
While the immediate focus is on search and rescue operations and providing emergency aid, the long-term recovery process following a disaster of this magnitude will take years. The storm not only damaged homes but also destroyed businesses, schools, and critical infrastructure like water systems and electrical grids. Local and federal agencies will need to work together to develop comprehensive recovery plans that address both short-term needs and long-term resilience.
In the coming weeks and months, efforts will likely shift toward rebuilding homes, restoring utilities, and rehabilitating public services like hospitals and schools. One of the major challenges will be ensuring that the rebuilt infrastructure is more resilient and able to withstand future storms. This will require investment not only in physical infrastructure but also in community preparedness and climate adaptation strategies.
According to experts, the damages from Hurricane Helene are estimated to be between $95 billion and $110 billion, making it one of the most costly natural disasters in U.S. history. In some cases, entire communities will need to be relocated due to the risk of future flooding or the destruction of basic infrastructure.
Another critical aspect of recovery that is often overlooked is the mental health of survivors and first responders. The psychological toll of enduring a major disaster can be profound, with many people experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression in the weeks and months following the event.
Mental health professionals are urging affected communities to prioritize emotional recovery as they navigate the aftermath of the storm. The need for trauma counseling, emotional support services, and community rebuilding efforts that foster resilience cannot be overstated. Organizations like the Red Cross and FEMA often provide resources for mental health services, and local groups may also offer support.
For survivors, the process of recovery will be a long and difficult road. Some may be dealing with the grief of losing loved ones, while others may be struggling with the uncertainty of when or if they will be able to return home. As communities work to rebuild, it will be important to ensure that mental health resources are readily accessible and that survivors receive the emotional care they need.
Authorities are advising residents in the affected areas to continue exercising caution as recovery efforts proceed. With hundreds of roads still impassable and many areas without power or clean water, the situation remains hazardous. Emergency responders and utility workers are asking residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, as this allows crews to work more efficiently.
Here are a few tips to stay safe during the ongoing recovery:
Follow local advisories: Monitor local news stations, social media updates from emergency services, and official alerts to stay informed about road closures, water safety advisories, and power restoration updates.
Boil water orders: Many areas are under boil water advisories due to contamination in the water supply. Be sure to follow these guidelines strictly to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Watch for hazards: Debris, downed power lines, and damaged buildings pose significant dangers. Avoid flooded areas and use caution when walking or driving through disaster zones.
Protect your health: If you are involved in cleanup efforts, wear protective clothing, including gloves and masks, to avoid exposure to mold, chemicals, or other hazardous materials.
Hurricane Helene has left a profound impact on the southeastern United States, but the response from communities, first responders, and volunteers nationwide has been a beacon of hope amid the devastation. While the full extent of the damage will take time to assess, the unity of purpose displayed in the face of such overwhelming destruction is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
As rescue and recovery operations continue, there is much work to be done. From providing immediate relief to ensuring long-term rebuilding, the collective effort of government agencies, non-profit organizations, and individual volunteers will be essential in helping affected communities recover and rebuild stronger than before.
If you wish to contribute to the recovery, there are numerous ways to get involved. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, every effort counts. In the aftermath of disasters like Hurricane Helene, the actions we take can make all the difference in helping communities heal and thrive once again.
With widespread damage across six states and the need for extensive recovery, Hurricane Helene will be remembered as one of the most significant natural disasters in recent U.S. history. Yet, through tragedy, there is always hope, and the response to Helene will surely demonstrate the power of compassion, cooperation, and perseverance.
