Published on October 1, 2024, 12:48 am

Image source: Fox News

The devastating effects of Hurricane Helene have left numerous states in the United States grappling to restore normalcy, as the official death toll escalates to more than 100 people, many who were cut off in inaccessible regions and remained unaccounted for.

President Joe Biden expressed his sympathy to victims during a Sunday statement: “Earlier I was briefed on the impacts of Hurricane Helene and our work to support ongoing response and recovery efforts. I directed @FEMA_Deanne Criswell to determine what more can be done to accelerate support to those who need it most in isolated communities,” he said. The President has also committed himself to visit these affected areas when emergency operations allow him the opportunity.

Reiterating this sentiment, Biden assured communities that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring resources necessary for recovery are disbursed promptly. He further promised continuous liaison with state and local officials to provide the required support. Alongside pledging his administration’s commitment towards helping affected communities recover, the president and his wife extended their prayers to the families whom have lost loved ones due to this horrific storm.

Hurricane Helene claimed at least 107 lives across six American states with a sizeable number of fatalities being reported from Western North Carolina’s Asheville region. Christian organizations like Samaritan’s Purse and The Salvation Army are actively stepping forth with hefty aid- providing much needed relief amidst these trying times at various locations across southeast United States.

An alarming incident was reported by Swannanoa area’s law enforcement authorities from Buncombe County, North Carolina; approximately 100 bodies were discovered amongst trees in an area devastated by the natural disaster. With morgues reaching their capacities, there is growing concern over managing dead bodies that continue being found daily.

The severity of the impact is such that approximately 390 roads remain closed due to flooding, trees swept down by violent winds and extensive damage caused by landslides around areas like Interstate 40. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has advised against non-essential travel to the western parts of th e state, freeing up the access ways for emergency responders, utility and transportation crews dealing with this extensive recovery operation.

Sharing a personal account of his ordeal, Sam Perkins from Burnsville described how he had to hike 11 miles uphill across challenging terrains after being cut off from contacting his parents for two days. His post emphasized the devastating impact of the disaster- ruined roads leading up to homes, ravaged utility networks and residences isolated from all external resources.

Given the extent of damage witnessed in his community, Perkins foresees immense challenges ahead for the North Carolina Department of Transportation as they aim to restore power lines and make road repairs. He warned that it might take a substantial amount of time before these areas would have their accessibility restored.

The aftermaths of Hurricane Helene have thus underscored once again the importance of timely assistance, accurate coverage by trusted news sources and generous contributions from organizations. It is heartening to know that incessant efforts are taken by various parties concerned in offering real news updates on unfolding developments related to Hurricane Helene’s lasting impact.