Asheville, North Carolina is reeling from the widespread devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene, one of the most destructive storms in U.S. history. The death toll has surpassed 130, with at least 132 deaths reported in six Southeastern states, spanning from Florida to Virginia.
The aftermath of the storm has revealed a landscape of destruction, including splintered houses, crushed cargo containers, and mud-covered highways. In western North Carolina, residents are facing a crisis as they are stranded by washed-out roads and a lack of power and cellular service. As emergency workers reach isolated areas, the death toll continues to rise, with White House homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall suggesting that as many as 600 people may still be unaccounted for.
In the hard-hit tourism hub of Asheville and its surrounding mountain towns, government officials and aid groups are working tirelessly to deliver basic supplies by air, truck, and even mule. The county that includes Asheville has reported at least 40 deaths, highlighting the unimaginable destruction and desperation in the region.
The North Carolina death toll paints a grim picture of the storm’s impact, with stories emerging of people trapped by floodwaters in their homes and vehicles, or killed by falling trees. The region is facing major challenges in rebuilding homes and infrastructure, as roads have been washed away or blocked by mudslides, and the city’s water system has been severely damaged.
Volunteers, such as Mike Toberer and his mules, are stepping in to deliver much-needed supplies to hard-to-reach areas in the mountains. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden is planning to travel to North Carolina to assess the situation and offer support to those affected by the storm.
The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene underscores the urgent need for a coordinated and sustained response to help communities recover and rebuild. With hundreds of roads closed and more than 1,000 people seeking shelter, the region faces a long and difficult road to recovery. The resilience and determination of residents and volunteers alike are shining through in the face of adversity, as they come together to support each other and rebuild their communities.