Hurricane Helene, one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history, has devastated parts of the Southeast, leaving a tragic toll of 161 lives across six states, according to CBS News.
The Carolinas bore the brunt of the destruction, with more than 113 deaths reported, including first responders who lost their lives while trying to rescue others. Among the casualties was a police K-9 in eastern Tennessee, swept away by floodwaters.
Over 340,000 people in North Carolina are still without any power as of Wednesday morning (via PowerOutage.us).
In North Carolina, search and rescue teams, including more than 900 personnel, are actively working to recover victims. In Buncombe County alone, at least 57 people have died.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has joined Governor Roy Cooper on the ground, surveying the damage in the worst-hit areas. Federal and local teams continue to support ongoing rescue operations as the region begins its long road to recovery.
Rescue teams, nonprofits, state agencies, and community-led efforts are now asking for everyone’s help to contribute manpower, money, and supplies. Here are ways you can;
#1 Volunteer your time:
– Samaritan’s Purse Volunteer Signup
– Appalachian Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer Signup
– North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
#2 Donate your money:
– Red Cross
– Salvation Army of The Carolinas
– JAARS
– Samaritan’s Purse
– Baptists on Mission
– Americares Helene Relief Effort
– Community Housing Coalition (CHC) of Madison County
– BeLoved Asheville
– Hope Mill Inc’s Hurricane Relief
#3 Donate supplies:
– Operation Airdrop
– Foster Family Alliance of NC
– Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry
– NC Mountains Emergency Response Facebook Group
Please share additional resources and rescue efforts in the comments below.
