Tragic Incident as Camper Swept Over Waterfall Amid Hurricane Helene Flooding

A camper was swept away and fell over a waterfall during the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in Fries, Virginia. The New River peaked at 7 feet over the flood stage before gradually receding. Governor Glenn Youngkin confirmed at least two casualties in Virginia, part of a larger toll exceeding 200 deaths across multiple states.

During the calamity brought by Hurricane Helene on Friday in Fries, Virginia, an unfortunate incident was recorded wherein a camper was swept away by powerful floodwaters and plunged over a waterfall. The New River experienced a dangerous surge, reaching seven feet above the major flood stage before the waters began to recede. The footage shows the camper being swept downstream by the torrent of the New River, culminating in a heart-stopping moment where the individual is propelled over the waterfall, disappearing from sight. Witnesses observed the event unfold, with audible reactions in the background; one voice was heard exclaiming just before the camper was lost, while a child inquired about the fate of the individual, to which an adult responded, “Destroyed, babe. All into a million pieces.” As of now, the New River has stabilized, returning to its normal levels following the catastrophic flooding. However, in light of such damages, the New River Trail State Park has announced its closure until further notice. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin confirmed during a press conference earlier this week that the impact of Hurricane Helene resulted in a minimum of two fatalities within the state, contributing to a grim toll exceeding 200 deaths across six states as of Thursday.

Hurricane Helene recently wreaked havoc across several states in the United States, leading to severe flooding and devastating consequences. In Virginia, the New River swelled perilously, prompting significant safety concerns. The natural disaster prompted officials to close recreational areas to assess and repair damage. The loss of life associated with the storm, as confirmed by state authorities, reflects the severe risk and devastation posed by such inclement weather conditions.

In summary, Hurricane Helene’s impact on Fries, Virginia, presented a tragic scenario when a camper was swept over a waterfall due to the overwhelming floodwaters of the New River. This event highlights the critical need for safety awareness during extreme weather conditions. The closure of the New River Trail State Park serves as a reminder of the ongoing repercussions of such disasters as communities begin to recover.

Original Source: www.foxweather.com