Hurricane Helene Causes Severe Damage in North Carolina

Hurricane Helene has caused catastrophic damage in Western North Carolina, with a significant number of fatalities and widespread power outages. At least 35 people have died, and hundreds are unaccounted for as the region faces extensive flooding, mudslides, and infrastructure destruction, including the collapse of a major highway. Blue Ridge Energy reports that 6,800 miles of its 8,500 miles of power lines have been damaged, leaving over 34,000 members without power as restoration efforts continue around the clock. The city of Asheville is particularly hard hit, suffering damage to its water system and facing boil-water advisories. Experts highlight the exacerbating impact of climate change on extreme weather events, with Helene's heavy rainfall contributing to the severity of the disaster. Local and regional support efforts are underway to assist recovery in the affected communities.