President Joe Biden stated that dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in communities across six states will cost billions of dollars. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited affected areas, with Biden touring North and South Carolina and planning stops in Georgia and Florida. More than 50 counties have been designated as major disaster areas, and Biden approved 100 percent federal reimbursement for debris removal and emergency measures for six months. Recovery efforts have been ongoing, with FEMA providing direct assistance to those affected. Mayorkas warned of a funding shortfall for future storms, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Harris visited Georgia, where she approved 100 percent federal reimbursement for local costs and promised continued support for the affected communities.
Over 6,000 National Guard soldiers from 12 states have been activated, with nearly 4,000 in Florida and 700 in North Carolina.
FEMA has delivered more than 8.8 million meals, 7.4 million liters of water, 220,000 tarps, and 150 generators.
The American Red Cross is accommodating over 2,400 hurricane-displaced individuals in 75 shelters from Florida to North Carolina as of Sept. 30. North Carolina’s shelter population is on the rise, with over 1,200 occupants in 29 shelters as of Oct. 2.
The Red Cross has deployed close to 5,000 personnel and 90 emergency response vehicles.
This report includes contributions from Caden Pearson.
