Helene’s deadly aftermath continues in Asheville, North Carolina

ASHEVILLE, N.C – The catastrophic effects of Hurricane Helene continue to unfold in North Carolina, highlighting the devastating impact of hurricanes even hundreds of miles from landfall.

Remnants of Helene flooded the state, dropping nearly 30 inches in some places – or about four months of rain in just three days.

The Category 4 storm made landfall in Florida, leaving a trail of destruction stretching through Georgia, the Carolinas and the Tennessee Valley. With more than 120 confirmed deaths in six states, Helene’s death toll is staggering.

Helene’s death toll rises to over 120 as North Carolina towns remain isolated after catastrophic flooding

President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster for North Carolina, where nearly 40 people have tragically lost their lives. Over 450,000 residents remain without power and countless more have been displaced by flooding. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but many communities remain isolated due to impassable roads, power outages and communications disruptions.

“I and my team are in constant contact with governors, mayors and local leaders. FEMA Director Deanne Criswell is on site in North Carolina. She will remain in Asheville, this region’s town, for the foreseeable future. ” Biden said. “There are reports of more than 100 people dead as a result of this storm, and there are reports of up to 600 people missing because they cannot be contacted. God willing, they are alive. But there are “No way to contact them again,” due to the lack of cell phone coverage.”

Cell service failure in North Carolina angers stranded residents after deadly Helene flooding

Search and rescue operations are in full swing in Asheville, one of the hardest hit regions in Buncombe County. Up to 14 inches of rain fell in three days, setting a new record. The torrential rains caused the Swannanoa River to reach levels above its record high in 1791.

“It’s shocking,” said resident Russell Jones. “It’s one of those things where you don’t expect the river to just be so huge.”

The video shows Chimney Rock being completely destroyed as Helene triggers catastrophic flooding in North Carolina

Despite the challenges posed by damaged infrastructure, emergency responders are using helicopters, ground teams and other resources to reach those in need.

Residents are grappling with the extent of the damage as they survey their homes and businesses.

“I never could have imagined this,” said Oele Trump, a Candler resident who told FOX Weather about her experience with the storm and its impact on her art gallery in Asheville. While her gallery appeared to have weathered the storm relatively well, the general devastation in the community was evident.

Footage filmed by Thomas Mabry shows Asheville’s Arts District being inundated by floodwaters Friday morning.

HOW YOU CAN HELP WITH THE HURRICANE HELENE RELIEF

According to city officials, Helene severely damaged Asheville’s water system and it will take weeks to restore full service.

Residents were advised to boil their drinking water. There are accommodations available, but some are starting to fill up. Food and water supplies are limited and will be distributed to designated locations as they become available. Bus services have been suspended and firefighters are available at fire stations around the clock to provide medical assistance.

As the recovery process begins, North Carolina has a long road ahead.