Hurricane Helene: Death Toll Rises to 100 with Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The death toll from Hurricane Helene has risen to at least 100 in several southeastern U.S. states, with rescue efforts ongoing. President Biden pledged continued federal support, particularly for North Carolina, which has been severely affected. Nearly two million households remain without power, and the storm’s impact has become a focus in the upcoming presidential election as both Trump and Harris plan visits to the region.

The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has tragically resulted in a death toll of at least 100 across several southeastern states of the United States, as rescue efforts persist. President Joe Biden characterized the devastation as “stunning” and committed to deploying resources such as food, water, and life-saving equipment to the affected areas. Officials are particularly focused on North Carolina, which experienced significant losses, including 39 fatalities as reported by local authorities. Rescue and recovery operations continue in states like Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, where the hurricane made landfall as a Category Four storm, unleashing winds of up to 225 kilometers per hour (140 miles per hour) and causing widespread flooding that exacerbated the destruction of roads and infrastructure. It has been reported that counties like Buncombe in North Carolina faced particularly severe flooding, with dozens confirmed dead as search and recovery operations are ongoing. Governor Roy Cooper pointed out that many communities have been severely impacted, with hundreds of roads destroyed, and conveyed the emotional and physical toll on residents as “indescribable.” Moreover, nearly two million households remain without power as the region grapples with continued rising river levels. Climate change experts have highlighted the correlation between warmer sea temperatures and the occurrence of increasingly violent storms, though recent months had shown a decrease in such activities. The timing of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, occurring close to the U.S. presidential election, has consequently influenced the campaigning strategies of both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, whose presence in the affected areas aims to mobilize support and relief efforts. As stated by Vice President Harris, “We will stand with these communities for as long as it takes and make sure they are able to rebuild.” As rescue efforts continue, the overall impact of Hurricane Helene on communities and infrastructure remains a critical focus for federal and state officials alike.

Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida as a powerful Category Four storm, causing extensive destruction across multiple southeastern states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee. The intense storm triggered severe flooding and wind damage, leading to loss of life and prompting ongoing rescue and recovery efforts. With the presidential election on the horizon, the storm’s toll is now a significant aspect of the political discourse in the United States, as candidates seek to address the needs of affected constituents.

The devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction across the southeastern United States, prompting a robust federal response led by President Biden. The challenges faced by the impacted states underscore the urgent need for resources and support as communities begin the long process of recovery. As the region continues to deal with the consequences of this unprecedented storm, it remains integral for government officials and candidates to prioritize effective relief efforts amid the political landscape leading up to the election.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com