FLORIDA (US): According to a CNN report, Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across the Southeast, resulting in 93 deaths, widespread power outages, and many families stranded in floodwaters.
Casualties have been reported in South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. In North Carolina, officials have confirmed 36 fatalities, while South Carolina has reported at least 25 deaths, including two firefighters in Saluda County. Georgia has seen at least 17 deaths, with two victims killed by a tornado in Alamo, as noted by a spokesperson for Governor Brian Kemp.
In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis indicated that at least 11 individuals have died, including several drownings in Pinellas County. Additionally, two deaths have been confirmed in Virginia, and two in Tennessee, according to CNN. Buncombe County in North Carolina has received about 600 missing persons reports via an online platform, County Manager Avril Pinder mentioned on Sunday.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has stated that his administration is working closely with state and local officials to offer essential assistance and resources to those affected by Hurricane Helene. In a post on X, Biden said, “I am receiving updates from my team regarding ongoing response efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and my administration remains in constant communication with state and local officials to ensure communities have the support and resources they need. As we assist in response and recovery efforts, we will ensure that every resource is utilized to help communities swiftly begin the rebuilding process.” He added, “Jill and I are keeping those who lost loved ones in our thoughts, as well as those whose homes, businesses, and communities have been impacted by this devastating storm.”
