Hurricane Helene Death Toll Rises to 220 as Southeast Reels from Catastrophic Flooding and Damage

StateDeaths
North Carolina74
South Carolina36
Georgia25
Florida30
Tennessee4
Virginia2
Table: Deaths have been reported in the following states

Economic Impact

HurricaneYearCategory at LandfallDeath TollEstimated Damage
Helene20244220+$35-160 billion
Michael2018574$25 billion
Irma2017484$50 billion
Katrina200531,833$125 billion
Table: Comparison of Recent Major Hurricanes in the Southeastern U.S.

Climate Change Connection

Hardest-Hit Areas

North Carolina

South Carolina

Georgia

Florida

Infrastructure Challenges

Debris remains after Hurricane Helene | Hurricane Helene left a trail of debris in Asheville, North Carolina, on September 30th, 2024 | (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) The Prime Headline

Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage

Video: Hurricane Helene devastates southeastern US, millions without power

Response and Recovery

Flood damage caused by Hurricane | Hurricane Helene caused severe flooding in Silver Creek, North Carolina. This aerial photo from Sunday shows the damage | Photograph: North Carolina Division of Aviation/EPA | The Prime Headline.

Remembering the Victims

Video: Donald Trump speaks in Georgia town affected by Hurricane Helene (Sept. 30, 2024)

Long-Term Implications

Lessons Learned

Looking Ahead

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Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact across the southeastern United States serves as a sobering reminder of the increasing risks posed by climate change and the urgent need for action. As communities begin the long road to recovery, it is crucial that we prioritize investments in resilient infrastructure, improved flood risk management, and public education to mitigate the impacts of future storms. By working together to address the root causes of climate change and build stronger, more sustainable communities, we can honor the lives lost and ensure a safer future for generations to come.


FAQs:

What is the current death toll from Hurricane Helene?

As of Wednesday, October 4, 2024, the death toll from Hurricane Helene has risen to at least 220 people across six states. The storm has been one of the deadliest to strike the mainland U.S. in over 50 years.

Which areas were most affected by Hurricane Helene?

The hurricane caused widespread destruction from Florida’s Gulf Coast to the Appalachian Mountains, with North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida experiencing the most severe impacts.

How many people are still missing?

Hundreds of people are still unaccounted for, with about 600 people reported missing according to homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall.

How many people are without power?

Over 2 million customers remain without electricity across several southeastern states.

What areas experienced the worst flooding?

Western North Carolina experienced unprecedented and catastrophic flooding, with the town of Swannanoa being decimated by severe flooding along the Swannanoa River.

How is the federal government responding?

President Biden has approved major disaster declarations for Florida and North Carolina, allowing survivors to access FEMA aid. Emergency declarations are in effect for Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

What should I do if my home was damaged?

If your home was damaged, contact your local emergency management office, document all damages, file an insurance claim if applicable, and apply for FEMA assistance if you’re in an eligible area.

How long will recovery take?

The full scope of damage is still being assessed as many areas remain inaccessible. Long-term recovery will take significant time and resources at the federal, state and local levels. Rebuilding homes, businesses, infrastructure and whole communities decimated by Helene will be a long and difficult process in the months and years ahead.

How strong was Hurricane Helene when it made landfall?

Hurricane Helene made landfall as a powerful Category 4 storm with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph (225 km/h).

What was the economic impact of Hurricane Helene?

Preliminary estimates suggest Hurricane Helene could result in economic losses ranging from $35 billion to $160 billion.

How has climate change affected hurricanes like Helene?

Climate change is believed to be intensifying hurricanes by warming ocean temperatures, raising sea levels, and increasing atmospheric moisture, leading to more rapid intensification and extreme rainfall.

How can I help the victims of Hurricane Helene?

You can donate to organizations such as the American Red Cross, The Florida Disaster Fund, Salvation Army, and United Way of Florida, which are accepting monetary donations to support relief efforts.

What role did rapid intensification play in Hurricane Helene?

Hurricane Helene underwent rapid intensification before making landfall, a trend that is becoming more common due to climate change and warmer ocean temperatures.


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