Hurricane Helene Leaves Extensive Damage and Deaths

Hurricane Helene has caused catastrophic damage across the Southeastern U.S., resulting in over 200 deaths and estimated losses of up to $250 billion, with only around $5 billion potentially covered by insurance. The storm's unprecedented flooding impacted areas like western North Carolina, where flood insurance coverage is critically low, affecting the ability of homeowners to recover. Many affected residents, including those in Tennessee and Georgia, are grappling with substantial financial losses due to inadequate insurance policies, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency's flood maps have not been updated for decades. The intensity of Helene has raised concerns about future storms, as climate change exacerbates weather extremes. In light of the devastation, there is an urgent call for reevaluation of flood insurance policies and preparedness in regions previously deemed safe from flooding. As Hurricane Milton approaches, the situation remains dire for millions of homeowners facing compounded challenges.