Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across the southeastern United States, claiming at least 43 lives and leaving millions without electricity as it continues to move northward. The storm made landfall overnight on Thursday, becoming the most powerful storm recorded to hit Florida's Big Bend area before advancing into Georgia and the Carolinas.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with officials utilizing boats, helicopters, and large vehicles to assist individuals trapped in floodwaters. Among those rescued were approximately 50 patients and staff stranded on the roof of a flooded hospital in Tennessee.
Helene, which was classified as a category four hurricane, maintained its strength for several hours after making landfall. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the storm brought a significant storm surge, with water levels rising more than 15 feet (4.5 meters) along parts of the Florida coastline. While the surge is expected to decrease over the weekend, the risk of high winds, flooding, and potential tornadoes remains.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicated that some areas could still experience up to 20 inches (50 cm) of rain. Helene is recorded as the 14th most powerful hurricane to impact the US since records began, with a width of approximately 420 miles (675 km), making it one of the largest storms on record.
In Florida, at least eight fatalities have been reported, with five of those occurring in Pinellas County, which includes the city of St. Petersburg. Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed that one death was caused by a road sign falling on a vehicle, while another resulted from a tree falling on a house.
After impacting Florida, the storm continued its destructive path into Georgia, where at least 15 additional deaths have been reported, including that of a first responder. A suspected tornado in Wheeler County claimed two lives when it overturned a mobile home. To assist with rescue efforts, Governor Brian Kemp has mobilized 1,000 National Guard troops, as over 150 roads have been closed across the state and many residents remain trapped in buildings.
South Carolina has reported at least 17 deaths, while neighboring North Carolina has seen two fatalities, one from a vehicle collision and another due to a falling tree in Charlotte. The state also experienced two confirmed tornadoes, damaging several buildings and injuring multiple individuals.
Virginia recorded one death linked to the storm as well. As of late Friday, over three million homes and businesses were without power in the southeastern region, according to tracking services.
Rescue teams have been actively working to reach those in need. In North Carolina alone, more than 100 rescues have been completed. In Tennessee, 58 individuals were rescued from a hospital roof after swift water from the Nolichucky River hindered initial efforts.
In Pasco County, north of Tampa, 65 individuals were rescued from floodwaters, while guests at a Ramada Inn in Manatee County were also evacuated as water surged into the hotel. Reports from Suwannee County indicate extreme destruction, with numerous trees collapsing onto homes.
Residents are advised to remain cautious as the aftermath of the storm continues. FEMA officials urge communities to heed local warnings, emphasizing that just because the storm has passed does not mean it is safe to return home.
With exceptionally warm sea temperatures fueling hurricanes, experts warn that the 2024 hurricane season could still see significant activity, with the season not concluding until November 30.
India Launches ‘Operation Sadbhav’ to Help Typhoon-Hit Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam
Tropical Storm Ileana Hits Los Cabos: Safety Alerts and Precautionary Measures in Place