Hurricane Helene's severe flooding has left 54 people stranded on the roof of Unicoi County Hospital in Tennessee. Rising floodwaters from the Nolichucky River and high winds have complicated rescue efforts, preventing boats and helicopters from safely reaching the hospital initially. Helicopters, including those from the Virginia State Police and the National Guard, are now conducting rescue operations, though a few individuals remain awaiting evacuation. The hospital's swift inundation made traditional evacuation methods impossible, forcing patients and staff to seek refuge on the roof. The storm has caused widespread devastation across the southern U.S., resulting in at least 34 deaths and millions without power.