Raleigh, N.C. — North Carolina is grappling with the aftermath of Helene, a devastating storm that has left two people dead and widespread disruptions in its wake. Governor Roy Cooper reported that the fatalities included a motor vehicle accident in Catawba County due to a flooded roadway, and another in Charlotte where a tree toppled onto a house.
The storm, previously categorized at hurricane strength, has downgraded to a fierce tropical storm as it continues to batter the western part of North Carolina. Trees have fallen, causing massive power outages and road closures that have paralyzed parts of the state. As of this morning, there are an estimated 879,000 power outages across North Carolina.
Governor Cooper urged residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to follow evacuation orders. “This is not just about weathering the storm but ensuring safety in its aftermath,” he said during an emergency briefing, emphasizing that the potential for tornadoes remains as the storm system progresses.
In addition to state efforts, emergency response teams from more than a dozen other states are assisting with rescue operations. Over 100 swift water rescues have been reported since Helene began, and efforts are ongoing to manage the effects of the storm, including flooding and additional evacuations.
The state has set up approximately 15 emergency shelters and is working in close coordination with local officials to streamline the response and recovery efforts. “We are doing everything in our power to support and protect our residents through this challenging time,” Cooper stated.
Infrastructure damage includes over 290 closed roads, with conditions expected to worsen. State transportation officials continue to advise against travel, stressing the ongoing danger posed by the unstable conditions.
Chris Peoples, Chief Operating Officer of the North Carolina Department of Transportation, highlighted efforts to clear roads when safe to do so. He noted that roads like Interstate 40 have seen significant disruptions, including a landslide that blocked all four lanes at Old Fort Mountain and flooding at several other key transport routes.
In response to the crisis, the North Carolina National Guard has been activated, deploying over 350 guardsmen with high-water vehicles and aircraft ready for emergency interventions. Major General Todd Hunt emphasized the readiness of the Guard to support affected communities, stating, “We’re here to provide relief and assist in recovery efforts across the state.”
Helene’s impact extends beyond North Carolina, with reported fatalities and power outages in neighboring states such as Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. The storm made landfall late Thursday, bringing significant rain, winds, and disruption to a large swath of the Southeast.
Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to heed local warnings and evacuation orders, stay informed through reliable news sources and local emergency management offices, and avoid driving through flooded areas.
As North Carolina continues to face Helene’s wrath, Governor Cooper reassured the public, “We are steadfast in our resolve to see this through. The safety of North Carolinians is our top priority, and we are mobilized on all fronts to protect life and property.”