As Hurricane Helen wreaks havoc across the southeastern United States, the death toll has tragically climbed to 59 as of the 28th. Can you share with us the impact this storm has had on the affected regions?
Hurricane Helen made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend area late on the 26th, unleashing fierce winds and heavy rainfall that have resulted in severe flooding across multiple states. Local emergency officials have described the devastation as “biblical flooding,” with more than 3 million households currently without power.
Reports from CNN indicate that Hurricane Helen has weakened to a post-tropical cyclone with winds of 35 mph. However, its effects remain deeply felt, especially in South Carolina, which has reported at least 19 fatalities, including two emergency responders.
What can you tell us about the local response to this disaster?
According to the National Weather Service’s Greenville-Spartanburg office, this is one of the worst disasters in the area’s history. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has noted that over 400 roads remain closed due to flooding and landslides.
What are the current power outage statistics in the affected areas?
The website PowerOutage.us reports that over 3 million households are experiencing power outages in South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, and Ohio.
How has flooding transformed communities in these regions?
The Washington Post has highlighted the significant changes in North Carolina towns, where floodwaters have uprooted homes and landslides have isolated mountainous regions.
What warnings do meteorologists have for residents in these impacted areas?
Meteorologists are issuing strong cautions, emphasizing that the threat of flooding has not yet subsided. Some dams are close to failure, urging residents to seek higher ground. Ryan Cole, the assistant director of emergency services in Buncombe County, described the situation, saying, “The whole county is experiencing devastation reminiscent of what is described in the Bible.”
What is the official statement from North Carolina’s leadership regarding the flooding?
Governor Roy Cooper has stated that certain areas are experiencing some of the worst flooding on record.
