Hurricane Helene: Devastation Across Southeast Leaves 64 Dead and Millions Without Power

Hurricane Helene has led to 64 confirmed deaths and widespread destruction across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. The powerful storm caused catastrophic flooding and wind damage, leaving approximately 2.8 million customers without power. State and federal emergency responses are underway to assist affected regions, with ongoing rescues and recovery efforts.

Hurricane Helene has caused widespread devastation and loss of life across multiple states in the southeastern United States. As of September 29, 2024, at least 64 fatalities have been reported in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. The hurricane made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 storm, marking it as the most powerful hurricane to hit that area in recorded history. The storm’s impacts included significant storm surges, wind damage, and severe inland flooding, leading to substantial destruction of homes and infrastructure. Among the deceased are notable cases such as Leon Davis, an assistant fire chief from Blackshear, Georgia, who perished when a tree fell on his vehicle while he was responding to an emergency. In Georgia alone, casualties included a mother and her infant twins, killed when a tree collapsed onto their home. The aftermath has left millions without power, with reports indicating that approximately 2.8 million customers remain affected across ten states. South Carolina, Georgia, and North Carolina have been particularly impacted, with tens of thousands of residents struggling without electricity. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper reported ten deaths in his state, emphasizing the unprecedented devastation that has impacted western regions. Emergency responders have engaged in numerous rescue operations, with over 200 individuals saved via water and helicopter rescues since the hurricane struck. Vice President Kamala Harris has offered condolences to those affected by the hurricane, pledging federal assistance in recovery efforts, including the provision of essential supplies such as food and water. As recovery efforts continue, communities face the colossal task of rebuilding amidst severe challenges posed by the storm’s destruction.

Hurricane Helene swept through the southeastern United States, affecting several states as it made landfall in Florida as a powerful Category 4 hurricane. The storm was marked by extreme winds and torrential rain, leading to record-setting storm surges and destructive inland flooding. Loss of life and infrastructure damage have been significant, prompting state and federal emergency responses to assist affected populations. With large-scale power outages and emergency rescues now underway, the full extent of damage is still being assessed as communities rally to cope with the aftermath of this catastrophic weather event.

In summary, Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic impact has resulted in at least 64 fatalities across multiple states, significant property destruction, and widespread power outages. As emergency personnel and government officials work tirelessly to respond to the crisis, the affected communities confront the daunting challenge of recovery and rebuilding. The storm’s legacy highlights the community’s resilience in the face of unprecedented natural disasters and the critical role of emergency response services.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com