Devastation Strikes North Carolina as Hurricane Helene Causes Record Flooding and Landslides, Death Toll Rises

Rescue efforts are currently in full swing across western North Carolina, following the catastrophic -Hurricane Helene, which unleashed unprecedented flooding and landslides on the region over the weekend. Deanne Criswell, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administrator, characterized the flooding as "historic" during an interview on CBS’ "Face the Nation" on Sunday, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

Unprecedented Flooding and Landslides

Criswell expressed concern over the overwhelming flooding and landslides, stating, "I don't know that anybody could be fully prepared for the amount of flooding and landslides that they are experiencing right now." She noted the ongoing deployment of search and rescue teams to assist those affected by the disaster.

Death Toll and Emergency Response

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper addressed the press on Sunday, revealing that the current death toll of 11 was anticipated to rise as search teams were reaching previously isolated areas impacted by the storm.

"This is an unprecedented tragedy that requires an unprecedented response," Governor Cooper remarked, acknowledging the likely increase in fatalities. He urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel on roadways in western North Carolina to prioritize access for emergency vehicles.

In response to the devastation, more than 50 search teams have been deployed across the affected region to locate stranded individuals. Governor Cooper emphasized, "Many people are cut off because the roads are impassable."

Delivery of Supplies and Essential Resources

Efforts are also underway to airlift supplies to the region around Asheville, a popular tourist destination in the western North Carolina mountains, which has been significantly impacted by the storm.

Concerns Over Water Supply and Communication

Administrator Criswell highlighted the urgent concern regarding water supply in the affected areas. While bottled water has been sent to the region, efforts are being made by the Army Corps of Engineers to assess and restore water systems to facilitate access to safe drinking water.

Additionally, plans to deploy satellite communications and Starlink satellites to the area have been initiated to alleviate communication challenges faced by the affected residents.

Impact of Climate Change

When questioned about the role of climate change in exacerbating the storm's impact, Criswell pointed out that the rapid intensification of the storm was attributed to warmer water temperatures. She noted the increased frequency of storms reaching major category levels, as well as the heightened storm surge and rainfall in coastal areas as effects of climate change.

Criswell remarked, "In the past, when we would look at damage from hurricanes, it was primarily wind damage with some water damage. But now we're seeing so much more water damage. And I think that is a result of the warm waters, which is a result of climate change."