Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across the US Southeast, causing widespread devastation. The storm has claimed at least 56 lives, displaced numerous residents, and left millions without power, according to Voice of America.
Rescue operations are underway to reach those stranded by the flooding. In North Carolina, Governor Roy Cooper reported 10 fatalities. South Carolina confirmed 19 deaths, including two firefighters in Saluda County. Georgia has recorded at least 17 fatalities, with two people killed by a tornado in Alamo. On Saturday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis updated the death toll in Georgia to 11, which includes several individuals who drowned in Pinellas County.
In Virginia’s Craig County, one person died from injuries caused by a storm-related tree fall and building collapse, as reported by Governor Glenn Youngkin, according to CNN.
President Joe Biden expressed concern over the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Helene. In a post on X, he said, “The devastation we’re seeing in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is overwhelming. Jill and I are praying for all those who have lost loved ones and everyone affected by this storm. Our priority is on life-saving and life-sustaining efforts in the Southeast, and I’m being regularly briefed by my team, which is coordinating recovery efforts with state and local officials.”
Biden added that his administration has been providing support to affected areas since before the storm made landfall. “My Administration has stood with the people of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee since before Helene made landfall. We will remain on the ground, assisting in recovery efforts long after this storm has passed,” he said.
Former President Barack Obama also commented on the hurricane’s devastating effects and encouraged support for organizations aiding victims, such as Feeding Florida, the Red Cross, Direct Relief, Mercy Chefs, and the International Medical Corps. In his post on X, he said, “Michelle and I are keeping everyone impacted by Hurricane Helene in our thoughts and are grateful to the first responders and volunteers doing everything they can to help.”
He added, “On September 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Southeastern United States as a powerful Category 4 hurricane with winds reaching 140 mph, leaving a trail of immense destruction. Millions are still without power, and many areas remain under evacuation orders or are inaccessible. Our hearts go out to the affected communities and the brave first responders working tirelessly to reach those in need.”
