Hurricane Helene Claims 189 Lives, Becoming Deadliest Storm Since Katrina

The confirmed death toll from Hurricane Helene has risen to at least 189, making it the deadliest hurricane since Katrina. The storm caused catastrophic damage across several states, leading to significant flooding and power outages. President Biden has mobilized active-duty soldiers to assist with recovery efforts, and bipartisan Senate leaders have urged Congress to convene for legislative action to provide aid.

As of Wednesday evening, the confirmed death toll from Hurricane Helene has tragically risen to at least 189 individuals, marking it as the deadliest storm to impact the mainland United States since Hurricane Katrina. The devastation caused by this natural disaster has been catastrophic, resulting in significant storm surges, wind damage, and inland flooding across multiple states including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. Rescue operations are currently in progress, as residents remain stranded and homes have been destroyed. In response to the ongoing crisis, President Joe Biden, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, visited the affected region to assess the damage firsthand. During his address in Raleigh, North Carolina, President Biden affirmed, “The United States — the nation — has your back. We are not leaving until you are back on your feet completely.” Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region as a formidable Category 4 hurricane, becoming one of the strongest hurricanes on record to hit that area. Efforts to restore power are underway, yet approximately 1.2 million customers remain without electricity, particularly in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. To bolster recovery efforts, President Biden announced the deployment of up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers from the Infantry Battalion Task Force in Fort Liberty, North Carolina. These troops are tasked with delivering essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine to isolated communities. “These soldiers will speed up the delivery of life-saving supplies… they have the manpower and logistical capabilities to get this vital job done, and fast,” stated President Biden. Furthermore, bipartisan Senate leaders have urged Congress to convene to address the extensive needs arising from Hurricane Helene’s destruction, emphasizing the necessity for timely legislative action to assist those affected. In summary, this devastating hurricane has severely impacted millions of Americans, and continuous support and recovery initiatives are paramount as efforts unfold to aid those who have suffered losses.

Hurricane Helene, which struck several southern states, has inflicted catastrophic damage, leading to a significant death toll and widespread destruction. The storm is recognized as the most lethal hurricane to strike the mainland United States since 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. In the wake of Helene’s landfall, recovery efforts are ongoing, with local and national authorities mobilizing resources to assist affected communities. The impact has primarily included severe flooding, power outages, and displacement of residents, which has necessitated governmental intervention and support from various organizations.

In conclusion, Hurricane Helene has emerged as a significant catastrophe, resulting in an alarming death toll and widespread devastation across several states. The response from federal and state leaders emphasizes a commitment to providing relief and support for recovery. The coordination between military aid, congressional actions, and humanitarian efforts reflects the urgency of the situation. As the nation rallies to support those affected, it becomes increasingly vital to ensure that recovery efforts are swift and comprehensive.

Original Source: abc7ny.com