Hurricane Helene's Wrath: Southeastern U.S. Commences Massive Cleanup

The Southeastern U.S. is grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which resulted in widespread devastation from Florida to Virginia. The storm killed at least 69 people, caused massive blackouts, and inflicted damages estimated between $15 billion and $100 billion. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing as communities start rebuilding.

States across the Southeastern U.S. initiated extensive cleanup and recovery operations on Sunday following Hurricane Helene's destructive passage. The storm brought catastrophic flooding, obliterated roads and bridges, and plunged millions into darkness from Florida to Virginia.

At least 69 individuals were reported dead, with the toll expected to rise as more bodies are found. Damage estimates are staggeringly high, ranging from $15 billion to over $100 billion, according to insurers and forecasters. Officials are in the process of evaluating the full extent of property damage and lost economic output.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper confirmed 11 deaths in his state and warned that western roads are impassable and will need months for repairs. In Flat Rock, power outages led residents to wait for hours for essential supplies. Meanwhile, FEMA reported that numerous water, communication, and transportation systems have been compromised. The Army Corps of Engineers is assessing water system damages to accelerate recovery efforts. President Joe Biden assured that federal resources would be fully deployed in the relief operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)