US: Hurricane Helene unleashes havoc, 93 dead & millions without power, Harris to visit affected areas
Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across the Southeastern United States, resulting in at least 93 confirmed deaths and leaving millions without power. The storm has particularly devastated North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, and Tennessee, with widespread flooding and damage reported.
North Carolina has been hit hardest, with county and state officials confirming 36 fatalities. South Carolina reports 25 deaths, including two firefighters who died while responding to the emergency in Saluda County. Georgia has seen at least 17 fatalities, with two victims perishing in a tornado in Alamo, as reported by Governor Brian Kemp’s office. Florida’s toll stands at 11, with several drowning incidents in Pinellas County. Virginia and Tennessee each reported two deaths.
The aftermath of the hurricane has led to significant challenges, including approximately 600 missing persons reports filed in Buncombe County, according to County Manager Avril Pinder. Many families remain stranded amid rising floodwaters as emergency responders work tirelessly to reach those in need.
In response to the crisis, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris plans to visit affected areas once it is safe and will not disrupt ongoing emergency operations. A White House official confirmed her intention to assess the situation firsthand.
President Joe Biden assured the nation that his administration is in constant communication with state and local officials, coordinating support and resources for the affected communities. In a statement shared on social media, Biden expressed his condolences to those who lost loved ones and pledged that “no resource will be spared” in the recovery efforts.
As the region begins to assess the full extent of the damage, officials are urging residents to remain cautious and to follow updates from emergency management agencies. Rescue operations are ongoing, and recovery efforts will likely take months as communities begin the arduous task of rebuilding.
