Hurricane Helene Deaths Rise to Two in Virginia; Future Rain Raises New Alarm

Hurricane Helene has tragically claimed at least two lives in Virginia, with ongoing fears of more rain from a new storm approaching the region. Governor Glenn Youngkin has reported significant flooding and damage in several counties, leading to a federal Emergency Disaster Declaration to assist recovery efforts. Rescue operations are underway for those affected, and concerns persist regarding infrastructure and future storm impacts.

The tragic toll of Hurricane Helene in Southwest Virginia has reached at least two fatalities, as new concerns arise regarding additional rainfall from a storm anticipated to approach the region later in the week. Governor Glenn Youngkin confirmed the fatalities during an update, noting that the storm has affected multiple southeastern states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky, with a reported death toll exceeding 100 individuals nationwide. Governor Youngkin addressed the situation at the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center. He remarked on the unprecedented nature of the damage observed, citing long-term residents who have never experienced a storm of such magnitude. The Governor emphasized the state’s commitment to providing resources and assistance to those impacted. In response to the disaster, President Joe Biden approved an Emergency Disaster Declaration, which will facilitate support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for affected counties and cities, including Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, and Galax. Youngkin indicated that further expansions to this list will include additional localities. The National Weather Service reported that Galax experienced approximately 8.6 inches of rain during a 72-hour period, severely impacting smaller communities such as Damascus, where flooding reached 19.5 feet. Prompt rescue operations conducted by the Virginia National Guard and local emergency services resulted in over 70 swift water rescues, with notable efforts to save individuals stranded in high-risk areas. Moreover, with electricity outages at their peak affecting approximately 282,000 Appalachian Power customers, Youngkin noted a reduction to about 83,000 as efforts to restore power continued. Challenges remain, including a lack of cellular service in many areas, prompting the deployment of mobile communication towers. As recovery efforts proceed, an urgent concern is the status of dams and waterways, particularly in the New River Valley. Youngkin stated that authorities are actively working to mitigate potential hazards caused by debris in the water, emphasizing the necessity for safe environments as recovery initiatives unfold. In anticipation of further complications related to federal relief, Youngkin announced intentions to request a Major Disaster Declaration to secure necessary funding for individual assistance and public recovery efforts. This announcement follows a recent omission of FEMA funding from a Congressional budget agreement, emphasizing the need for federal legislative action for disaster relief.

Hurricane Helene significantly impacted various southeastern states, making its way through Virginia and leaving destruction in its wake. The storm’s legacy includes a rising death toll, with over 100 fatalities reported across various states. In Virginia, Gov. Glenn Youngkin has initiated responses to address the needs of affected communities, rallying state and federal support to manage the crisis and aid recovery efforts. The forecast of additional storms aggravates concerns about the precarious situation in Southwest Virginia, where water levels remain dangerously high.

Overall, Hurricane Helene has had a devastating impact on Southwest Virginia, resulting in multiple fatalities and significant infrastructure damage. The state’s response, led by Governor Youngkin, includes coordinated efforts to secure federal assistance, coordinate rescue operations, and restore essential services. As another storm threatens to strike, it is imperative for residents and officials to remain vigilant and prepared, while the long and arduous road to recovery lies ahead for many communities.

Original Source: virginiamercury.com