Responders from the Eastern Band of Cherokee, FEMA Urban Search and Rescue's Massachusetts Task Force 1, and local responders conduct a recovery operation in Clyde, Haywood County, North Carolina, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Eastern Band of Cherokee responders are identifiable by their orange vests. As of October 12, at least 251 people have been killed according to Fox Weather in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene since it made landfall in Florida on September 26. (Photo by Madeleine Cook/FEMA/UPI)
The response and recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene have been robust and comprehensive, with multiple federal, state and local agencies working together to support communities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.
President Joe Biden has approved federal disaster assistance for the affected states, which enables individuals to apply for help through FEMA. This support includes financial assistance for essential items, home repairs and temporary housing if needed. FEMA has deployed over 4,500 personnel, shipped more than 8.5 million meals, 7 million liters of water, 150 generators and 220,000 tarps to the affected regions.
The Department of Defense is assisting with recovery operations, deploying 1,000 active-duty soldiers to deliver food, water and other critical supplies. The Army, Navy and Air Force are providing helicopters, high-wheeled vehicles and engineering support to reach areas that are difficult to access. Additionally, the Army Corps of Engineers is engaged in providing temporary power and assessing structural damages.
In response to the health challenges, the Department of Health and Human Services has declared public health emergencies in several states, allowing more flexibility in providing medical care and resources. HHS has set up treatment sites in hospitals and deployed disaster medical assistance teams.
The restoration of power and communication networks is another priority. More than 50,000 utility personnel from across 34 states and Canada are working to restore electricity. Mobile emergency operations vehicles and Starlink satellite systems have established temporary communication channels until permanent services can be restored.
Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with over 1,250 urban search and rescue personnel operating across the region. These teams have rescued more than 1,900 individuals, providing critical aid and ensuring that communities receive timely assistance.
Residents in the affected areas are encouraged to apply for disaster assistance through disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or through the FEMA mobile app. Support is available to all residents, including those harmed by previous disasters.
Comments