Hurricane Helene's Death Toll Rises to 232

The death toll from Hurricane Helene has risen to at least 232 across six states, making it the second deadliest hurricane in the U.S. mainland in the past 50 years, following Hurricane Katrina. North Carolina has reported the highest number of fatalities, with ongoing recovery efforts hampered by significant infrastructure damage, including washed-out roads and bridges. Emergency responders from various states, including over 1,300 from the New York Fire Department, are assisting in Buncombe County, which includes the heavily impacted city of Asheville. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved over $27 million in individual assistance for North Carolinians, with more than 83,000 people registered for help. The Blue Ridge Parkway remains closed indefinitely due to catastrophic damage, as assessments continue. Recovery efforts are focused on restoring power, water infrastructure, and delivering supplies to isolated areas.