What's happened
Hurricane Helene has caused widespread destruction in western North Carolina, isolating communities and prompting a significant National Guard response. With over 90 fatalities reported, residents face challenges in accessing basic necessities as they prepare for colder weather ahead.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, National Guard members are delivering supplies to isolated communities, with Chief Warrant Officer Jonathan Behuniak noting, "There's really no access from the outside world." The New York Times highlights the emotional toll on residents, with one local stating, "From here, you can’t tell that the world’s going on." Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs from the New York Times reported on the harrowing rescue efforts, emphasizing the community's struggle to navigate the devastation. These accounts illustrate the profound impact of the storm on both the physical landscape and the emotional well-being of residents.
How we got here
Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina in late September 2024, leading to severe flooding and landslides. The storm's aftermath has left many communities cut off from essential services, prompting local and national aid efforts.
More on these topics
-
Asheville is a city in, and the county seat of, Buncombe County, North Carolina, United States. It is the largest city in Western North Carolina, and the 12th-most populous city in the U.S. state of North Carolina.