Governor Roy Cooper provided an update on the response and recovery efforts in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. The North Carolina National Guard, along with other military and first responders, have rescued hundreds of people. About 95 fatalities have been confirmed, with 26 people still unaccounted for. Power has been restored to most customers, and roads are gradually reopening. Schools are also reopening, and supplies are being delivered by helicopter due to limited road access.
More than 3,150 soldiers and airmen, along with numerous other agencies, have been working in the region. FEMA has provided assistance to over 207,000 individuals, and $129 million has been paid out in Individual Assistance funds. The Army Corps of Engineers is assessing damages and assisting with repairs. In response to the crisis, Governor Cooper signed an executive order to increase weekly unemployment benefits for all North Carolinians impacted by the hurricane.
Cooper also warned against the spread of disinformation and misinformation, stating that it hinders recovery efforts. Additionally, President Biden approved a major disaster declaration for southeastern areas of the state affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight, making federal funding available for emergency work and repairs.
The response to Hurricane Helene has been described as the largest and fastest integration of US military soldiers with the National Guard in North Carolina history. The state continues to work diligently to support those affected and ensure that recovery efforts are successful.
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