US Southeast Faces Daunting Task Cleaning Up After Helene; Death Toll Rises
September 28, 2024 Atlanta, GA – Residents across the southeastern United States are grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which tore through the region earlier this week, leaving widespread devastation and a growing death toll in its wake. Officials confirmed today that the death toll has risen to 27 as rescue and recovery efforts continue. The Category 4 storm, which made landfall near the coast of South Carolina late Monday night, brought winds exceeding 140 mph, torrential rains, and flash floods. Hundreds of thousands of people were evacuated ahead of the storm, but the damage is extensive. Homes have been destroyed, power grids disrupted, and key infrastructure severely damaged. Widespread Damage Authorities estimate that the damage across several states could total billions of dollars, with homes, businesses, and roadways either underwater or severely damaged by winds and debris. In coastal areas, storm surges inundated entire neighborhoods, sweeping away vehicles